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Councilors Set To Vote On Smoking Ban Amendment

By Paris Jackson

 

EUGENE, Ore. -- The air outside Eugene city-owned buildings, such as libraries and community centers may soon get a bit cleaner. Eugene City Councilors are expected to pass an amendment to the current smoking ordinance.

 

Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy expects Monday's vote to pass, since last month's public hearing didn't draw any strong opposition to the upcoming change.

 

The current ordinance requires smokers to be 25-feet away from a door, window, or vent to a public building. But the new ordinance would extend that to the curb.  We talked to some local residents to get their thoughts on upcoming vote.

 

"For the benefits of kids, who don't really have the option of deciding whether to smoke or not. It makes sense in those circumstances, especially if you're talking about places where kids are going to be. Then I actually support it," Eugene resident Christopher Kohl said.

 

Kohl wasn't the only Eugene resident, who shared those thoughts.  "I think its great, you know. Second hand smoke is a real issue and children shouldn't have to breathe in cigarette smoke. So I agree with it," Sasha Luftig added.

 

However, we spoke with other residents, who said this possible change is an infringement on their constitutional rights. The city said the reasoning behind the change is to provide a healthier atmosphere for children, who use services at city-owned buildings.

 

Eugene city councilors will make their decision during Monday's council meeting. If the smoking ordinance change passes, it would go into effect on March 8.

 

Comments

Narrow Minded Holier Than Thou Non-Smokers

Kids being exposed to car exhaust is not their choice either. Let me guess, council members can sit at the stop light in front of the library with car exhaust billowing out of their imported vehicles closer than smokers? Gee last time I checked new born babies cry when their spanked into to this complicated not always a bowl of cherries world.

Ban

Did anyone except the ban fanatics know about the public hearing?

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