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The Noble City Council unanimously approved an ordinance at its regular City Council meeting on Nov. 16 restricting the use of tobacco in any form on public property.
The new ordinance enhances one already in effect that bans smoking in public places
SWAT (Students Warring Against Tobacco) spokesperson Colton Clock and other student members of the Noble SWAT Team attended the meeeting. Gail Hilty, the Noble School official who is helping promote the program, said Noble was the first City in Oklahoma to pass a prohibition of all tobacco use on public property.
Mayor Gary Hayes issued a proclamation declaring the week of Nov. 14-21 as "Tobacco Free Week" in Noble. The proclamation mirrors the declaration Gov. Brad Henry issued for the State of Oklahoma.
The Noble City Council approved an emergency clause making the new ordinance effective the day it was published (Thursday). The new law says "No Person shall engage in the use of tobacco in any form in the following unenclosed public places: 1. In publicly owned outdoor arenas, stadiums and amphitheaters and on publicly owned property upon which said facilities are located. 2. Public parks and recreation areas. 3. School grounds. 4. Public sidewalks within twenty-five feet of a public entrance, but excluding any person who is temporarily in such area for the purpose of walking of traversing through such area."
The penalty for violations is up to $500.
Mayor Hayes said the intent of the ordinance is to set standards for public health, not to generate fine revenue. More than likely for first time offenders, the fine will be less than $100.
Bob Wade, city manager, said the city is working closely with the Noble Schools to implement a wellness concept for Noble. Noble Public Schools and the city have been certified as a Healthy School and a Healthy Business.
