Possible smoking ban for Spanish Fort

SPANISH FORT, Ala. - The Spanish Fort city council is considering passing a measure that would make it illegal to smoke in any public facility including restaurants.

If the order is passed, city leaders say smokers must be at least 30-feet away from the entrance in order to light up.

Cheryl Barnes owns a restaurant and says she understands what city leaders are trying to do.
That's why she doesn't allow smoking inside, but Barnes offers customers a table on the patio if they want to smoke.

She believes passing a no smoking law would take her rights away to offer this accomadation. "I Don't think it's any of the government's business. You pay the rent and you are doing something legal inside your business, you should be able to decide," said Barnes.

Right now, smoking is already prohibited in municipal buildings and parks.
But if this law is passed the number of places where smoking is allowed would get a lot smaller.

Spanish Fort city leaders say they have received dozens of requests to bring a no smoking law to the city.
That's why they are encouraging citizens to call, email, or come to city hall with your concerns and doubts.

City leaders are considering a provision for businesses where smoking is likely including nightclubs and bars.
However, no final decision has been made.

A final draft of the ordinance is expected to be on the agenda for the may council meeting.
Click here to email your city councilperson. http://cityofspanishfort.com/