The governing body of the city of Rockland voted Wednesday night to kill an ordinance amendment that would have prevented Maine Eastern Railroad from utilizing the historic downtown passenger train station for its intended purpose.

Following arguments presented by both sides of the issue, the city council defeated the proposal 3 to 2. 

In addition to a representative from the railroad, seven speakers came out in opposition to the law.  Among other things, Article II of the proposal entitled "Nuisances Affecting Health," would have allowed the city to levy fines of $1,000 per day for as long as the company continued operations at the train station.

The railroad argued that passage of any ruling by the city would have no jurisdiction because federal preemption supersedes local regulation. 

"Logic and common sense prevailed over emotion," said Gordon Page, Maine Eastern's representative.  He said that the railroad is willing to continue to work together with the city and with the state to achieve mutual goals.