Proposed ordinance would restrict smoking in American Falls parks

A controversial proposed ordinance would restrict smoking in public parks in American Falls.

The ordinance, which was revised at Wednesday night’s City Council meeting, would require smokers to keep at least 25 feet away from certain areas like playground equipment, picnic tables and ball fields.

City Council was expected to vote on the ordinance Wednesday, but instead sent it for a fresh round of public hearings.

“We need to be an example to our youth. Our youth need to see that we promote healthy lifestyles and that smoking is not part of that,” said council member Kristen Jensen, who spearheaded the ordinance.

But other leaders balked at regulating smoking.

“I appreciate the no smoking in these areas, but I think voluntary compliance would be more logical to try,” said council member Stuart Pancratz.

If passed, people violating the no smoking rule would face a $25 fine. The city would put up no smoking signs provided at no cost by the Southeastern Idaho Public Health District.

Several Idaho cities, including Boise, have already introduced smoke-free zones in parks.

A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for Feb. 18.