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By Adrian Nieoczym
Smoking in city owned natural areas will now cost you $100.
Council passed amendments to the Park and Public Spaces bylaw today, which among other things, outlaws smoking in natural areas, which are defined as non-irrigated city lands.
Council also asked staff to consult the public about how wide a smoking ban Kelowna residents want. A wider ban could cover parks, sports fields beaches, and even parking lots and bus loops.
Coun. Charlie Hodge did not want to wait for further action.
“The time has come…more and more communities are saying, ’sorry you’re not allowed to smoke anywhere in public facilities,’” he said during deliberations. “I don’t want us to spend all this money (for consultations), just to look good. Lets just do it.”
The amendments also ban fishing in public swimming areas or anywhere were signs prohibit fishing.
“The first time I read that (proposed fishing restrictions), I thought, we’re taking the fun out of fishing,” Coun. Graham James said during debate on the amendments.
City clerk Stephen Fleming told council said the bylaw change is needed because of a few people who ignore the safety of other people when choosing where to cast their line.
“It’s a couple of people who are oblivious, or choose to be oblivious to the rest of society, that we need these regulations,” he said.
adrian@kelowna.com/(250)575-3517
