The Red Hook Town Board has decided for now that there will be no smoking ban in the town’s public parks.
At its Sept. 26 meeting, the board acknowledged six written comments it received from the public on the subject. Dutchess County recently banned smoking in county parks and the Red Hook Recreation Commission had discussed whether the town should consider a ban as well.
The comments were evenly divided between those who wish to ban smoking and those who do not. One person in favor of a ban had observed smoking in or near the Rec Park during a Little League game and didn’t feel it was respectful. Someone else opposed to the ban felt that signs that say “Thank you for not smoking” was a friendly reminder for smokers to make the choice for themselves.
Councilwoman Brenda Cagle thanked those who wrote, noting that the comments were “all very thoughtful.”
In light of the comments and the Rec Commission’s opinion that current signage is adequate, the board decided not to pursue the issue any further at this time.
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