Boise smoking ban proposal proving to be a heated issue

It was standing room only Tuesday night inside Boise City Hall where dozens of residents gathered to sound off on the City of Trees proposed smoke-free air ordinances.

Boise City Council is considering two smoke-free ordinaces. The first would ban smoking in all Boise bars, private clubs and within 20 feet of city-owned buildings. The second proposal would ban smoking in public parks including within 20 feet of the Boise Greenbelt. There would be designated smoking areas at both Julia Davis and Ann Morrison parks.

City Council heard more than three hours of public testimony, Tuesday night. Many residents believe a smoking ban would promote a healthier city by minimizing secondhand smoke. "Everyone deserves the right to breathe clean air, period," Adrian Casper said.

Other Boiseians argue a smoking ban would cause storefronts to close and the local economy to suffer. "I don't think the City should have the right to put people out of business and that's what they're doing," Mona Lindeen said.

City leaders say if the ordinaces pass, there will be a waiting period before the legislation goes into effect to ensure bar owners the necessary time to educate their customers. If City Council approves the smoke-free proposals, the legislation will be enforced beginning in January 2012.