Lake Country is ready to butt out.
Council gave two readings to a bylaw Tuesday that would ban smoking in parks and beaches and within 7.5 metres of public buildings.
“Smoking is a significant health issue and second hand smoke is a significant health issue,” said Coun. Owen Dickie.
“I recognize that smokers have rights but they are a minority and they have to recognize that. It creates a more pleasurable environment for non-smokers.”
The district was urged by the Canadian Cancer Society and the Interior Health Authority to take action against smoking.
“Community awareness will be a part of the launch strategy along with signage throughout the community,” said Holly Flinkman, human resources and safety manager, in a report.
“Once approving the bylaw, there would be a staff component for training and education of this bylaw in order to implement it properly.”
RCMP officers and bylaw enforcement staff would enforce the rules.
“As it will be self-directed and complaint driven, we do not anticipate the requirement for additional resources to implement this bylaw,” said Flinkman.
Mayor James Baker supports the bylaw.
“If you sit at a beach and smoke comes your way, it’s quite obnoxious,” said Baker, a former smoker.
The bylaw could take force this summer.