Pubdate: Thur, 26 May 2005
Source: Union, The (CA)
Copyright: 2005 Nevada County Publishing Company
Contact:  http://www.theunion.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/957
Author: Brittany Retherford

CITY CLARIFIES RULES FOR SMOKING IN PARKS

Smoking in Grass Valley city parks needs to be restricted, but not
completely prohibited, the Grass Valley City Council decided at its
meeting Tuesday night.

The council unanimously passed a law that restricts smoking to
designated areas only within parks and also broadens the definition of
smoking to include any combustible substance, such as medical marijuana.

The issue was raised last year after a city park official said the
definitions were too loose and exposed children to people smoking
medical marijuana. An appointed committee also proposed prohibiting
smoking completely. A full ban would make enforcement more clear, but
it would also put a greater burden on those who must enforce the law,
said Jeff Jewett, the city's director of public works.

City Councilwoman Lisa Swarthout, who attended the committee meetings
and initially believed a total ban was a good idea, said that
prohibiting smoking completely would make it tough on individuals at
events to participate if they have to go far to be able to smoke.

The city plans to post more signs at parks to alert residents to the
designated smoking areas.

"Signage is so important, and hopefully you will make sure there is
enough. We find that no smoking creates a much better atmosphere for
people with children and people who want to have lunch," said Howard
Levine, executive director of the Grass Valley Downtown
Association.

Smoking is prohibited completely in Elizabeth Daniels Park, Dow
Alexander Park, and in all park facilities such as playgrounds, park
buildings and ball fields. Medical marijuana will still be allowed in
the designated smoking areas, pursuant to California law. 
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MAP posted-by: SHeath(DPFFlorida)