Birmingham council members listen to packed house on proposed smoking ban

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Birmingham City Council members considering a tough anti-smoking ordinance will evaluate the comments from dozens of people who appeared at a public hearing today before making a recommendation.

The council chamber was nearly filled as the public safety committee listened to residents, business owners and health advocates on both sides of the issue.

The proposed ordinance bans smoking nearly everywhere in the city besides private residences. Smoking outside is restricted to 30 feet away from buildings.

Several bar owners called the distance requirement too restrictive, saying it essentially bans smoking altogether and puts them at a disadvantage to other nearby cities that continue to allow smoking on patios. Health advocates however urged the committee to maintain its original proposals.

Councilman Johnathan Austin, the committee chairman, said the distance requirement should be reviewed.

"We want to strike a good balance between the business and the citizens," he said. "We know you all have made a big investment and want you to stay here. Hopefully we'll have an ordinance that everyone will be comfortable with."

Birmingham passed its current rules on smoking in 2005, making it illegal to smoke in several public places, including bus stops, elevators and restaurants. Bars, lounges and outdoor restaurant patios are exempt from that ban, but would be included in the new one.

The committee also discussed some changes to the proposed rules, including possible consideration for cigar lounges.

Committee members Jay Roberson and Valerie Abbott also agreed to review their notes before reconvening.

Austin said the committee would meet again March 7 to make recommendation on a draft to present to the full council.

"As we move forward in this process it was very important that we heard from you," Roberson told the group. "We have to compromise and establish good policy. Your voices were heard today on both sides."

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Birmingham council members listen to packed house on proposed smoking ban