In response to uncertainty over the benefits of imposing a ban on plastic shopping bags in the town, Bristol Town Councilors last week decided to suspend a decision on a new ordinance, East Bay Newspapers reported.

Councilor Timothy Sweeney proposed a bag ban earlier this year; residents' reactions have been split over the idea.

At a special workshop held Feb. 20, residents told the council that plastic bags are less of a problem than discarded cigarettes, bottle caps, and other litter, an article on eastbayri.com noted.

What do you think?

Was the council right to put off a decision on a plastic bag ban?

Do you agree with residents about where the town's priorities should be — for example, in beautifying the shoreline?

Have your say in the comments below.