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Smoking ban still heated, business owners fearful for future
The Northwest Missourian (NW MO State University)
11/12/2009
TRACI HARR SPOKE in defense of passing the ban on smoking in public places in Maryville. The subject will not be on the agenda again until early Dec.
Opponents and supporters came out to voice their opinion on the smoking ban proposal at the final public hearing Monday.
Mayor Chad Jackson announced that the City Council will not be making any decisions on the proposed smoking ban right now.
“We are not taking action tonight or next meeting,” Jackson said. “We as a council need to decide do we want to consider this ordinance or find another route.”
Approximately 60 people were in attendance for the meeting. Each side was given 15 minutes to voice their concerns, and then each side received an additional 10 minutes.
Amos Clampit from the American Legion returned with a second list of names against the ban. He originally turned in a petition with 899 signatures and the new list had an additional 602. He said 80 to 90 percent of American Legion members smoke and the ban could hurt business.
“It will make a difference,” Clampit said. “I’m worried about the American Legion.”
Many of the opponents of the ban were business owners that were not only concerned about losing customers, but confused by the ban of smoking within 20 feet of any workplace doors.
Pat Nelson of the Maryville Elks Club said he is concerned the ban’s 20 feet rule will ruin a business investment.
“We spent $2,400 putting in a deck in the back. If this passes we won’t be able to use a $2,400 investment because no part of it is more than 20 feet away,” Nelson said. “If you go out the front door, you’d have to go to the middle of the street to smoke.”
The owner’s of Bearcat Lanes bowling alley, Deon and Jodee Roush, have decided to compromise on the issue despite being opponents of the ban. They have changed their policy to prohibit smoking in every area but the bar.
“Some of our people have been OK with it as long as they still can smoke,” Deon Roush said. “Our biggest concern is accommodating all of the customers we have.”
Citizens for a Smoke-Free Nodaway County members filled the room. Spokeswoman Terri Harr’s daughter Traci addressed many of the concerns presented from the younger generations’ perspective.
“Some of you said you grew up with smokers, but my generation has not grown up with that,” Harr said. “This is a national progression and not something you should be afraid of.”
Harr said it was unfair to single out people that do not smoke and protect those that do. She also pointed out that the 20 feet rule was just a guideline and the coalition would be willing to work with business owners.
Anyone unable to attend the public hearings or that would like to voice their opinion may still e-mail or write a letter to the City Council.
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