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Health department urges tobacco- and nicotine-free zones at Pinckneyville park; council divided on scope
Summary
Amanda Warden of the Perry County Health Department asked the council to adopt a tobacco- and nicotine-free policy for sections of the City Park, particularly the Baby Sarah Playground; council members expressed differing views and the city attorney said a resolution will be required once the playground is constructed.
Amanda Warden of the Perry County Health Department attended the April 28 Pinckneyville City Council meeting to request the adoption of a tobacco- and nicotine-free policy for areas of the City Park, specifically recommending the Baby Sarah Playground be designated smoke-free.
Council reaction was mixed. Commissioner Kevin B. Hicks said he "didn’t see a need for it," while Commissioner William B. Stotlar argued that "smoke from a wood fire or barbecue is more unhealthy than cigarette smoke in an open area." Commissioner Joshua L. Kuhnert said he was not opposed to signage for the Baby Sarah Playground area because it will be fenced in. Mayor Robert L. Spencer said he could understand signs at the pool, Baby Sarah Playground and grandstand.
City Attorney Don Bigham advised that the city would need a resolution to formally designate the area once the playground is constructed, indicating a legislative step would be required before any enforcement or signage becomes official.
No formal motion or vote on a tobacco- or nicotine-free policy was recorded at the meeting. The discussion was limited to the presentation by the health department and council members’ comments; next steps would be for staff or council to draft a resolution if the council wishes to pursue formal designation.
