Shelby bans smoking in some areas of parks
Molly Phipps
Tobacco will soon be prohibited in some areas of Shelby's city parks. Shelby City Council unanimously approved a policy this week to enact a tobacco ban effective July 1. But after debate by city leaders, the ban won't include Royster Memorial Golf Course. The ban does include certain areas of Shelby City Park and Holly Oak Park. Local health department leaders promoted the ban, touting it as a way to improve health of residents. The city's parks advisory board recommended approval of the ban, which is a policy and not an ordinance, meaning violations will not incur fines or punishment. What's included? Tobacco products are prohibited at the following City of Shelby Parks and Recreation buildings, grounds and facilities:
What did leaders say? Council members were initially divided over the policy. Here's some of the discussion: Dennis Bailey: "Someone sitting in the bleachers should not be sitting beside someone smoking." However, he stressed that the golf course not be included in the ban, as many golfers smoke while on the course. David White: "The only problem I got with this thing is I don't like government telling us what we can and can't do." He later made a motion to table the policy until complaints are made, but the motion was withheld. Chris Mabry: "This is an educational policy. The point is to promote healthy living. My concerns are protecting children and their families." Joel Shores: He pointed out how smoke affects others. He said a friend of his was attending his son's ballgame at the park and was on the bleachers near a smoker. "He had to move because smoke was overtaking him. We have to step in when it's affecting other people," he said. Also on the agenda: Here's a look at other business at this week's council meeting: