Kelowna

Council set to approve smoking ban

Kelowna Council could take the first step to banning smoking in all city parks.



Council will be asked to consider the bylaw when it meets Monday.



The bylaw would effectively ban smoking in all areas of the city defined as 'parks,' except in designated smoking areas.



The current Parks and Public Spaces Bylaw prohibits smoking in what are considered 'natural areas.'



That definition would be removed.



In a report prepared by Park Services Manager, Ian Wilson, says parks larger than 15 hectares in size would be considered for designated smoking areas except for Knox or Dilworth Mountain.



He says City Park, Parkinson Recreation Park and Mission Recreation Park would be considered.



Wilson also recommends a designated smoking area be included in Guisachan Heritage Park since the site already has a designated area for smokers.



"A budget item for additional signage and public education as well as additional cigarette butt receptacles at park entrances will be included in the 2011 budget submission," says Wilson in his report.



"The final resolution approved by Council at the September 20 meeting, 'that City bylaw staff report back on the feasibility of amending City bylaws further to meet the recommendations of Interior Health, specifically with regards to smoking in outdoor patios or within six metres of building doors, air intakes or windows,' will be led by bylaw staff with support from Park Services."



The final price tag for education, signage and cigarette receptacles is estimated at close to $23,000.