Welcome to BGW Bbostick!
Again... Springbok is right on the money!
The Kawi FE engines were designed for many other applications besides just golf cars!
not only that... Club Car has "key start" carts that idle! (with the same engine)
I set my cart up to idle some 4 or 5 years ago and haven't "destroyed" my engine.
so, IMO... the previous owner is blowing smoke, and just doesn't know!
One thing to be aware of though...
just don't let it idle for extended periods, (longer then 5 or so minutes at a time)
it may carbon up the spark plug! (I've been there...)
.02
