Discussion near the end of the Green River City Council meeting last week indicates the Council is willing to examine if vaping should be included on the city's smoking ordinance.
During the Council comment period last week, Councilman Gary Killpack asked if the Council would be willing to examine the issue, saying he heard a complaint from a resident. Killpack said the resident was concerned that while smoking is prohibited in public parks, vaping isn't included in that prohibition and didn't like how residents sometimes have to deal with vapor coming from people.
Other Council members expressed a willingness to discuss the issue. The city did change its minor in possession laws to include vaping paraphernalia because the definitions created a loophole for minors to use and possess. A similar loophole exists in the city's smoking ban ordinance, which prohibits the use of ignitable tobacco products in buildings and public areas throughout Green River, excluding bars, private clubs and residences.
While Killpack said he had received comments from a concerned resident, other city departments haven't heard complaints. Both Brad Raney, director of the city's parks and recreation department and Amanda Cavaz, communications administrator for the city, said they haven't received complaints about people vaping in public spaces. Cavaz said the next move will rest with the Council if members decide to debate the issue further.
If the Council decides to amend the smoking ordinance, it would need to pass three readings by the Council before it would be enacted.
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