The town of Quispamsis plans to ban smoking in all public places this spring.
Council passed first and second reading of the Smoke-Free Spaces Bylaw this week.
Mayor Gary Clark explained the impact of the proposed bylaw.
“Basically smoking will be banned in all public locations in Quispamsis as of April 1st. This includes streets and sidewalks. Basically, the only place one can smoke in Quispamsis will be private property,” Clark said.
When asked if he expects any pushback from residents, Clark says 85 per cent of Canadians are non-smokers, so this won’t impact a lot of people.
The fine for breaking the bylaw will be $125, but Clark says this move is not about enforcement.
“It’s about education and awareness. It is designed to set the expectation of our residents and visitors to our town that we are a smoke-free community. We are further strengthening the province’s Smoke-free Places Act and taking it one step further,” Clark said.
There is a smoke-free policy for town staff and, before the bylaw takes effect, a smoking-cessation expert will visit all departments.
Clark says $15,000 has been budgeted for signage to be posted in trails, parks and all municipal facilities.
Council is expected to vote on third reading of the proposed bylaw on March 17.
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