You can now view Calendars of Events for today and upcoming weeks? A complete and up-to-date list of local events is now available on every section of PressRepublican.com.
By JOE LoTEMPLIO
PLATTSBURGH — Plattsburgh city councilors unanimously approved a tobacco-free policy for the City Beach, parks, recreation and multi-use paths.
The ban, passed at Thursday night's meeting, would eliminate smoking in those public areas, which are highly traveled by families with children.
"Besides the dangers of smoking, I think this is a good idea," said Councilor George Rabideau (R-Ward 3).
He noted that besides the problem of second-hand smoke, the beach is often littered with discarded cigarette butts.
"And some people flick their butts away, and they are still burning, and you have people walking on the beach barefoot."
Councilor Michael Kelly (D-Ward 2) said he has experienced a lit cigarette butt being flicked onto his blanket at the beach in the past.
"I am happy to support this," he said.
STUDY SET
In addition to approving the tobacco-free policy, councilors also agreed to conduct a study of the potential odor, noise and aesthetic impacts from the Water Pollution Control Plant on waterfront development.
The $75,000 study is being funded by a state grant.
The city has been reinvigorating the waterfront off Bridge Street since 2004 and eventually would like to see a hotel and conference center there.
GARDEN
The council also approved a two-year renewal agreement with the Plattsburgh Community Garden Group.
The group started the Community Garden last summer on a plot of land at Melissa L. Penfield Park.
E-mail Joe LoTemplio at: jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com
