By Rick Palsgrove
Southeast Editor
Groveport City Council has decided not to pursue a smoking ban in the city’s parks at this time.
Groveport City Administrator Marsha Hall noted more than a dozen Central Ohio communities as well as Metro Parks prohibit smoking and the use of e-cigarettes in their parks and she added, “Parks are there for the health and benefit of the citizens and many youths use our public parks.”
However, council was reluctant to enact a smoking ban in Groveport’s parks.
Councilman Scott Lockett stated he does not like cigarettes or smoking, but said he was against a smoking ban in the parks.
“Unless there is a problem I don’t want to take it away from people,” said Lockett. “If a problem arises then we can reconsider it. Plus, how would a ban be enforced?”
Councilwoman Becky Hutson agreed with Lockett stating, “There’s been no complaints.”
Councilman Ed Dildine said the situation should be monitored and he is concerned about people smoking around youth athletic events.
“Not everything has to be complaint driven,” Dildine told his fellow council members. “We can be proactive.”
Councilwoman Jean Ann Hilbert said city officials should be aware of the situation and make observations.
