LAFOLETTE – The mayor and city council members are trying to crack down on smoking at parks and playgrounds in the area.
“I have no problem with people smoking, but us non-smokers have the right to not smoke,” said Mayor Michael Stanfield. “We’re not going to intrude on your rights, so don’t intrude on ours.”
For about two months, city leaders have been drawing up an ordinance to ban smoking, along with cigarette products. Their hope is that it will protect children from second hand smoke.
“It doesn’t look good,” said Angelia Gray. “It kind of bothers me with all of the kids around.”
The proposed ordinance would ban all tobacco products from the city’s ball fields, skate parks and playgrounds.
“I think it would be nice to get rid of it,” said the mother of two. “Their lungs are still growing.”
Banning smoking isn’t a bad idea, even for those who smoke.
“It doesn’t bother me if I’m asked to step outside to smoke,” said Shonda Davis.
There are not plans for fines or tickets to enforce the law, if passed. Instead smokers would be asked to go outside of the park to smoke.
“It’s all about the kids,” said Stanfeild. “My live is about over here. If we could teach these young kids not to smoke and what tobacco and alcohol do to the body, maybe they will have a longer life.”