Changes May Be in Works for Proposed Smoking Ban

Some changes may be in store for the proposed Savannah smoking ban. The plan has drawn both criticism and praise over the past few weeks.

The original proposed ordinance would ban smoking in all Savannah businesses. Areas within 20 feet of business entrances and outdoor restaurant seating would also be off limits.

Many folks have been concerned about the part of the ordinance that bans smoking 20 feet from the entrance and/or exit of a building. Some people point out that 20 feet in some cases would put smokers in the middle of the street.

After hearing public comments, the Healthy Savannah Coalition is suggesting the requirement be changed to 10 feet, or "a reasonable distance", as defined by state guidelines, so that smoke does not get inside the business and it does not affect people entering or leaving the business.

The proposal would also ban smoking from playgrounds, but some folks pointed the wording in this section could ban smoking in Forsyth Park. The Healthy Savannah Coalition will recommend a change to the ordinance to clarify that a playground is defined as where children play.

The Healthy Savannah Coalition also said business operators will get some guidance about how to deal with someone who is violating the ordinance.

Mayor Otis Johnson said he and Healthy Savannah leaders want the ban to protect as many folks as possible, but they're willing to compromise.

"It is now in our hands, and it is our responsibility to come up with something that we can get a majority of council to vote on. It should make sense to as many people as possible, because no matter what we do we're not going to ever please everybody," said Mayor Johnson.

Another change being recommended is raising the fine for those caught violating the ban. Originally it was set at $50, but it's being changed to come in line with state law, which puts the minimum fine at $100.

If you have an opinion about the proposal, you have one more chance to comment at the first reading of the ordinance at the Savannah City Council meeting on August 12.