Oct 16, 2007 5:15 pm US/Central
Beaches, Parks, Playgrounds May Go Smoke-Free
Chicago Park District Considering Ban
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
Smokers may soon have to stamp out their cigarettes at some of the city's most popular outdoor destinations.
As CBS 2's Mike Parker reports, the Chicago Park District is considering a smoking ban that would clear the air at every park, playground and beach in Chicago.
The proposed ordinance says that anyone caught smoking in those areas could be fined $500.
The park district board is expected to approve it at Wednesday's meeting.
"I have a lot of sympathy for smokers, but not when second-hand smoke affects the health of other people," Park District Superintendent Tim Mitchell said.
Proponents also say cigarette butts and filters damage the environment. During a three hour cleanup of city beaches last month, they say they found some 35,000 butts in the sand.
"One small thing we can do, that is not small for people using the beaches, is stop using them as ashtrays," Joel Brammier of the Alliance For Great Lakes said.
A young mother, who often visits city play lots, is all for the ban.
"Especially with a toddler who picks up everything and puts it a lot of times, in his mouth," Susan Sholty said.
Even one smoker CBS 2 talked to goes along with the idea of yet another place he can't light up.
"I don't smoke in front of children. When I walk by children, I cup my cigarette in my hand. I don't want them to see it," Daniel Young said.
If the park district board approves the ban it would take effect immediately.
Mayor Daley called the proposal, "a well intentioned" effort to protect children and the environment.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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