“It’s a good exercise in helping educate the public and trying to reduce health concerns,” said South Dundas councillor Jim Graham.
Graham was referring to the tobacco-free policy, which took effect in South Dundas on June 26, 2012.
Recreation program coordinator Ben Macpherson first introduced the idea of a tobacco-free policy to council on April 17 and came back with a draft policy on May 15.
It became official when members of South Dundas council passed a by-law during the June 26 council meeting.
The policy includes stipulations for educating the public as well as erecting appropriate signage in tobacco-free zones.
Having discussed the topic extensively at previous council meetings, South Dundas council members had little to say before passing the by-law.
Councillor Archie Mellan admitted, “I have a few issues with it, but I got over it.”
He said he understood that the policy is meant to “protect the non-smoker from the second-hand smoke” and added his support.
According to the policy, “no person shall smoke on any public playing field, playground equipment zone, or other public recreation place as defined in this policy.”
“Smoke includes carrying a lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe or any other lighted smoking equipment.”
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