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Posted on 02/25/2004 8:48:30 AM PST by SheLion

ORMOND BEACH -- Ormond Beach smokers already unhappy about the statewide ban on smoking in restaurants are probably going to want a word with the mayor.

Mayor Fred Costello announced at a recent commission meeting he'd like to see the city adopt a sweeping smoking ban in public places. Costello said Tuesday he ultimately wants smoking prohibited outside of city buildings and other public places ranging from ballfields to areas outside hotels.

"Any city or public property where the public has access," Costello said. "I think Ormond Beach should be a no-smoking city. . . . I think it sets a good example for kids to be a healthy community and smoking in public infringes on the rights of others."

A few years ago, Costello made a similar proposal that never developed. This time, he's hoping his idea will ride the current momentum of the restaurant smoking ban and an anti-smoking measure Port Orange councilors are considering.

The Port Orange ordinance, which cleared its first hurdle this month on a 5-0 vote, proposes to outlaw smoking at several sports facilities, restrooms and concession stands near those facilities, playground areas, the City Center amphitheater, skateboard park and other city parks.

The Port Orange measure, which is largely aimed at shielding children, is up for a final vote next month.

Ormond Beach City Attorney Randy Hayes said he's not going to draft an ordinance until he can research the matter and commissioners have a chance to talk about the idea at a meeting this spring. The issue is tentatively scheduled as a discussion item for the commission's April 7 meeting.

The statewide ban on smoking in restaurants was passed by a majority of voters  (How many showed UP! heh) saying that's what they wanted. Hayes said he needs to determine if elected officials could impose a smoking ban, particularly on private property.

The city's four commissioners, who like the mayor do not smoke, say they want to learn more before they make any decisions.

"The pros are that it would help with health, pollution and litter," said Commissioner Troy Kent. "The cons are that it's more government in peoples' lives, and it's very intrusive."

Commissioner Scott Selis said he hasn't made up his mind about the issue. For now he's leaning against a broad smoking ban in public, but is "intrigued" by the Port Orange ordinance.

"I think right now I'd line up with Port Orange," said Commissioner Jeff Boyle. "I'm worried about enforceability."

Commissioner Bill Partington said he wants to hear from his constituents before he decides how to vote. But he said he likes "the Port Orange ordinance because it's narrowly tailored to protect the children."

email eileen

Shielding children.

Well, I doubt if "children's allowances" is going to keep open the restaurants/taverns/bars that keep those places running, do you?

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