Law Banning Smoking On Beaches Ignored
TRAVERSE CITY -- Traverse City Commissioners passed an ordinance in October prohibiting smoking in park buildings, swimming areas, and playgrounds.
With weather warming up, 7&4 News took our cameras to see if the ordinance is working. What we found is that it's not being followed. Beachgoers are lighting up in the water and on the beach. Some don't know the ordinance exists, others don't care.
Lauren Vaugh, Superintendent of Public Services says people are not supposed to be smoking. but the city won't take action until signs are put up. That could take a couple of weeks.
Vaugh says "They're hoping a lot of it will be self enforced by people who go to the park informing someone else about the ban. Hopefully it will be self policing."
If that doesn't work Vaugh says it will be up to the one City Ordinance Enforcement Officer on staff or the Traverse City Police Department to make sure people are following the rule.
Vaugh says "The first thing you would be asked is to stop smoking. If that doesn't work the person can be asked to leave the park. After that, a civil infraction will be handed out which has some fines associated with it."
It's not just smoking, alcohol is not allowed on the beach either. However, beer and wine is allowed on the grassy areas at East Bay Park, West End Beach, and the volleyball area.
What do you think about the smoking ban on the beach - should the city have passed the ordinance or is it to hard to enforce? Leave your comments below.
