Smoking Ban Vote Scheduled for December

Goose Creek City Council will hold a public hearing and take an initial vote in December on a proposed smoking ban inside businesses in Goose Creek. The vote appears likely to split council members.

If approved, the ban would impact the handful of establishments that still allow smoking. Councilman Jerry Tekac requested information on exactly how many businesses would be impacted.

Tekac, who has opposed a smoking ban in the past, said he is he's conflicted because of the push and pull of suggested health risks versus the rights of businesses owners.

"This is a very difficult decision for me," Tekac said. "This can't be taken lightly."

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Resident Tina Savage told the council that she lost her father earlier this year to lung cancer. She told the council that she'll wait an hour sometimes for a seat in the non-smoking section at local restaurants.

Goose Creek Planning Commissioner Alan Wall said the government should stay out of a business matter. But 10-year cancer survivor John Dolentz said the government has a responsibility to address health risks.

"The government is already involved in their business," Dolentz argued.

Councilman Franklin Moore said he introduced the new smoking ban ordinance after a request from residents that the city revisit the issue.

He also spoke with fellow council members to address concerns with past attempts at an ordinance. New in this draft: smoking will be allowed on decks and patios 10 feet from an entrance.

But some members continued to oppose the ordinance.

"I've heard there's too much government already," said Marguerite Brown. "Anyone who runs a restaurant can post a non-smoking sign. It's not our responsibility or our decision to decide for them." 

Several local municipalities have instituted smoking bans in the past few years, citing health risks for employees in smokey bars and restaurants.

Last month, the City of North Charleston rejected a smoking ban, instead opting to send a message to business owners alerting them to the perceived dangers of second-hand smoke.