The City Council is scheduled to consider a resolution next Monday night that would outlaw smoking in the outdoor dining areas of restaurants.
Numerous questions remain unresolved.
Would the ordinance apply to every business that serves food?
Would bars be excluded?
Would in-between businesses, such as Starbacks, be placed under the umbrella of the law or beyond?
A broad coalition of restaurateurs stands stoutly in opposition to the measure, arguing that they should be able to retain control over this facet of their business.
Besides, they add, ithe incidence of smoking is so rare these days as to obviate the need for a law.
By this, you may fairly conclude that there is less than a groundswell favoring the proposed law, which proponents say would close a desired circle by banning smoking in all areas of all restaurants.
Judging by the two recent community forums soliciting public comment, however, there is little sentiment among residents for enacting another no-smoking ban.
Smoking, especially in public places, has become so passe, says Mayor Scott Malsin, that pointedly prohibiting it in the single out of doors eating area is unnecessary.
It seems to him more like a nuisance law.
“This is a solution in search of a problem,” Mr. Malsin says.
“Smoking is so much less prevalent than any time in my life that I can remember,” says the 48-year-old mayor.
Pressed, he said he could not remember the last time he countered smoking when he, his 4-year-old daughter and wife were enjoying a restaurant meal outdoors.
The irony of Mr. Malsin’s opposition is that he, himself, is an occasional smoker. “It is true that I enjoy smoking cigars a few times a week,” said the mayor.
Not, however, at mealtime.
“I find it to be very unpleasant if someone is smoking when I am dining,” he said. “That is why I would remember it if it ever happened.”
Tonight’s Agenda
The last seats on 3 city commissions will be filled by the City Council at tonight’s meeting, which starts at 7 o’clock in Council Chambers.
Choosing three lucky persons from 15 applicants will be the highlight of a slim agenda.
