Summerville proposes ordinance to ban smoking and vaping in public parks

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) – A proposal to prohibit smoking in parks and recreation was introduced Thursday night in the Town of Summerville.

“It was initiated by our parks and recreation director and it’s about banning smoking and vaping in our park areas,” said Summerville Mayor Russ Touchberry.

Town council on Thursday passed the first reading and amended it to add no smoking in special events such as the Summerville farmer’s market.

“The real intent is to create a healthy and clean environment for our folks to enjoy,” said Mayor Touchberry.

Touchberry said the purpose of Thursday night’s proposal presentation was to get the town’s feedback,

“It is the first reading- we will listen to any public feedback that comes, and we will encourage that. In October, we will take it up again have a second reading in October, and have public feedback,” said Touchberry.

Other municipalities in South Carolina that have already adopted similar policies include Columbia, Denmark, and Estill.

If you missed the Summerville town meeting, you can send feedback here.