HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-07-14 Health and Public SafetyHEALTH & PUBLIC SAFETY JULY 7 2014 5:05 P.M.
Committee Members Present: Derek Dieter, Henry Davis, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Tim Scott
Citizen Members Present: Vacant
Other Council Present: Valerie Schey, Dr. David Varner, Oliver Davis, Karen White,
Gavin Ferlic
Others Present: In Favor: Lindsay Grace — American Lung Association — Indianapolis
Nancy Yocum
Brianna Hermann — Carmel
Adida Gaber—Indianapolis
Carl Nichols —South Bend Minority Coalition
Jeff Zimpleman — Mishawaka
Jacob Hughes —South Bend
Sandy Pontius
Opposition: Mitch Zultanski —South Bend
Don Ruszkowski — American Legion #357
R.C. Chevry — Rum Village
Gary Weiss — Jeannie's Tavern
Dave.Weber
Stephanie McDonald
John Bergrat
Kevin Hill
James Groves
Paula Lezinski
Agenda: Bill 31 -14 Smoke -Free Rules, Article 10 Chapter 14
• 2nd Substitute
The Health & Public Safety Committee Derek Dieter Chair, recessed in the Council Caucus Room to
reconvene in the larger Council Chambers to accommodate a rather large audience gathered to witness
debate whether the City's Smoke Free Rules were to be amended.
Chairman Dieter noted this was a second substitute bill amending Article 10 Chapter 14 of the Municipal
Code. He called upon the bill's sponsor Gavin Ferlic to make the presentation.
Gavin's bill would ban smoking in all establishments including taverns and clubs now exempt if posted as
a smoking allowed establishment. He said the preponderance of evidence showed smoking and
exposure to second -hand smoke as well posed serious health risks to the general public and should be
banned.
Opponents maintained the risks should be a matter of personal choice. They added that small business
would be harmed should the ban be put into effect.
A host of speakers followed Gavin's presentation both speaking in support and those in opposition.
After an hour hearing both sides of the issue the Committee on a motion by Derek Dieter seconded by
Tim Scott, forwarded the bill to full Council with no recommendation.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
—Derek Dieter, Chairperson
Health & Public Safety Committee