Highland Village bans smoking in city parks and recreation areas

by Staff of Lantana Links

The Highland Village City Council approved a policy Tuesday to restrict the use of tobacco outdoors on municipal property where children are present.

Councilmembers voted 4-3 to make it a violation to smoke in any city park, trail, trail amenity area, recreational field, practice field, seating area or concession area.

"For me, this is not about big government. It is first and foremost a public health issue. Should we as a council do what we can to limit exposure of minors and non-smokers to second hand smoke? The answer in my mind is yes we should," said Dr. Scott McDearmont, deputy mayor pro tem.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Evidence suggests that exposure to second hand smoke can result in adverse health effects, including heart disease in non-smokers.

"Data is beginning to show us that anti-smoking legislation can reduce the incidence of heart disease," added Dr. McDearmont.

The ordinance will go into effect after a second read at the next regular city council meeting.

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