SALEM, OR — The City of Salem is considering banning smoking on some public sidewalks, including the walkways next to Salem Hospital and Willamette University. Mayor Anna Peterson proposed the ban at the request of officials from the hospital and university.
Earlier this month, the city council asked staff to draw up an ordinance for a vote at a future meeting. In addition to the sidewalks next to the hospital and university, Peterson’s proposal would allow businesses to request smoking bans near their properties. Councilor Brad Nanke objected to the proposal, saying it would be difficult to enforce. It wouldn’t drive smokers to quit, only to move up the street or to their cars.
The city council considered but rejected a proposal to ban smoking in city parks several years ago. Councilor Dana Dickey said she will soon make another attempt at a smoking ban in city parks.
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