City Council discussed and voted to ban smoking in Churchill Square, and one councillor has started looking at making the same ban applicable at all City parks and attractions.
All but two councilors voted in favour of banning smoking in Churchill Square year-round.
In order for a ban to be enforced, a new bylaw will have to be created.
The vote came after Councillor Michael Walters floated the idea on July 16, asking administration to find out what the city would have to do to enact a ban, and the fines for non-compliance.
“Where we have families and lots of kids we should create the conditions where they can have a smoke-free environment,” Walters said. “We did that today, so I feel pretty good.”
The report came back to councilors Friday, October 15 – and became the subject of heated debate.
After Council voted on the ban in Churchill Square, Councillor Michael Oshry has asked for a report from administration on the possibility of having smoking bans apply to other locations, like the Zoo and Fort Edmonton Park.
“It’s not about telling people they should or shouldn’t smoke, it’s up to them to do what they want in their private homes, or in a private business,” Oshry said. “In a public venue like a city-owned facility, I think there is an onus on the City to make sure it’s enjoyable for everybody.”
Currently, people caught smoking within 10 metres of a playground or sports field would face a fine of $250.
The bylaw for Churchill Square is expected to be in place in about three months.
With files from Veronica Jubinville
