City Council’s third reading on a total ban on smoking in parks was defeated Monday evening.
Precious Grundy | The Lima News
LIMA — City Council’s third reading on a total ban on smoking in parks was defeated. At Monday evening’s meeting, members of the Council decided to move the policy regarding smoking signage to be discussed again at the next Public Works Committee meeting.
In September, the City of Lima partnered with Activate Allen County to help create healthier communities. The hope of the smoke-free parks was to combat the rate of second-hand smoke.
Activate Allen County met with the Public Works Committee members to address the potential new policy in the City of Lima parks. Co-director of Activate Allen County Josh Unterbrink shared that many areas have begun to use smoke-free policies.
“Across the State of Ohio in our regions,” said Unterbrink. “A lot of cities have adopted tobacco-free policies that employers are seeking when they look to relocate communities. It is something that we can’t afford to sleep on.”
Following the presentation, committee members discussed community members’ opinions of the policy. Mayor Sharetta Smith said 7 public comments stated the City should designate an area, 23 comments said there should be no smoking in parks and 17 stated the parks should be left as is.
First Ward Council Member Todd Gordon shared his thoughts on the policy.
“I am a former smoker,” said Gordon. “I am very uncomfortable with taking the liberties away from people. I think smoking at a kids’ ball game or soccer game shouldn’t be anywhere near there. If someone walks behind a tree to have a cigarette I have no problem with that. If there is a way to put signage up or have designated non-smoking areas I could go for something like that.”
The City Council meeting followed the Public Works meeting on Monday night where six of the eight council members agreed to defeat the ordinance.
Public Works Committee members will further discuss potential signage in designated areas.
At the end of the City Council meeting, 6th Ward Council Member Dr. Derry Glenn honored 3 students for their success in academics.
Amilliyana Nance, G’Vonte Davis and Destin Morris were given a plaque and a financial award for their hard work and dedication.
“A lot of times in the City,” said Jamie Dixon, 5th Ward Council Member, “we as a community spotlight individuals who are in sports. We don’t talk about academics enough. I want to encourage you to continue to do the things you are doing. They don’t go unnoticed.”
Reach Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.
