Florida: Ormond mayor airs smoking ban idea

news-journalonline.com ^ | 25 February 2004 | EILEEN ZAFFIRO

[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

 

[SheLion]

My application has been sent.

Thanks, Hon, for anything you can do!!!!

[CSM]

No, thank you. It's MGD time, type at ya tomorrow.

[SheLion]

No, thank you. It's MGD time, type at ya tomorrow.

You misunderstood me.

Anyway, have a great night there!

[Gabz]

I've never been there but it sounds like many of those cookie cutter places that are all over the USA today. I call them "fake towns" because there is no real life going on,they all remind me of movie sets.

Actually it's not. It's been many years since I've been there, but what I remember it is a very pretty area with beautiful beaches.

[NautiNurse]

Except on raining and high wind days. Wonder what smoker will go out in that?

You must see it to believe it. These outdoor areas have heat in the winter, fans in the summer, roofs and shades/tarps to block out the elements. The only things they are missing are 2x4 studs and drywall.

[Gabz]

Good!

(btw, your tag line is a hoot!!!)

[Gabz]

I saw similar type arrrangements in California when we were out there a few years ago.

I don't know about new York or Maine - but those type of arrangements are not permitted in Delaware....the heaters are ok - but there can be no roof of any shape or form. once there is, it is considered "indoors" and smoking is prohibitted.

I'm hoping the weather is reasonably decent this Saturday when we are up there...............

[SheLion]

You must see it to believe it. These outdoor areas have heat in the winter, fans in the summer, roofs and shades/tarps to block out the elements. The only things they are missing are 2x4 studs and drywall.

Sounds great!!!

I remember reading an article from Washington State. One hospital erected one of those big green tents not far from the entrance for smokers. Put in lounge chairs and I don't know what all.

One woman smoker said that she hates to have to go outside, but the hospital out did themselves to accomodate smokers like this. I think it's wonderful. Sure beats "NO SMOKING ON HOSPITAL GROUNDS. PERIOD!" like here in Maine! :(

[Gabz]

after the original smoking (semi) ban went into effect in Delaware in 93, the Department of Health and Social Services built a heated and air conditioned pavilion on the grounds for the state nursing home. The residents were unable to smoke in the home itself, but had comfortable quarters out of the elements. Everyone was happy.

Fast forward to the now total smoking ban and DHSS DENIED an exemption for the home to continue using the paviolion.

The same DHSS that runs the home and used taxpayer funds to build it has now denied it's use.

Several nursing homes in Delaware are under investigation because of residents suffering frostbite from being locked out of the buildings this past winter. Of course none of the news reports indicate why these elderly people were outside in the middle of the winter - but it would not surprise me to find out they are victims of these idiotic smoking bans.

[Just another Joe]

Hayes said he needs to determine if elected officials could impose a smoking ban, particularly on private property.

He better think LOOOONG and HAAAARD about imposing a smoking ban on private property.

I know they already did it with restaurants, but outdoors?

[Great Dane]

In fact, one restaurant I frequent does prohibits non-smokers out on their deck unless accompanied by a smoker. They will ask to see your cigarettes before seating if they don't recognize the patron. It's pretty funny.

Creative thinking at it's best... love it.

[SheLion]

I know they already did it with restaurants, but outdoors?

Mayor Fred went home yesterday with such a headache from all the emails we sent him, that he kicked his dog. LOL !

Seriously, I know what you mean, Joe. But this man is a control freak sitting in the seat of power. Who knows HOW much he wants to control.

Must be BloomingIdiots relative!

[CSM]

Re-reading this post this am, it should have read:

"No. Thank you." Instead of "No, thank you."

I was thanking you not turning down an offer.......

Sorry if I caused you confusion.