WAUSAU — Members of the city’s parks and recreation committee on Monday will again take up the issue of smoking in city parks.
At a meeting in August, committee members debated the issue, but ultimately opted to obtain additional input and research before passing any resolution.
Smoking is already prohibited on The 400 Block during some events, including the popular Concerts on the Square Wednesday night concert series. But some members of the city’s parks and recreation committee, citing concerns over second-hand smoke and littering, are still hoping to ban smoking altogether in city parks.
Another option being considered is a partial ban, focusing on areas used by youth and for sporting or other special events. Members of the committee will review similar policies at other municipalities around the state.
Such restrictions are becoming increasingly common around the state and elsewhere. In Minneapolis, for example, smokers have long been prohibited from lighting up within 100 feet of pools, beaches, playgrounds and park buildings. In March, Minneapolis banned all tobacco use at city parks, including e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco.
If such a ban would pass through the committee, the proposal would be subject to full council approval before taking effect.
