The town of Simsbury has banned the smoking of cannabis products on public property. The decision was made Monday night, after a unanimous vote by the town’s Board of Selectmen.
This decision is a compromise. Originally, it was proposed that all types of smoking, including tobacco, would be banned on most parcels of public property. But after hearing what the public had to say, the proposed ordinance was amended.
Since being proposed, the idea has been met with a passionate response and it continued during Monday’s public hearing.
“When I go out for a walk, I want to breathe in fresh air. I don’t want somebody cigarette inhaling into my lungs,” Simsbury resident Lori Boyko said.
The originally proposed ordinance would have banned smoking tobacco, vaping or cannabis products at places including playgrounds, parks, trails and government buildings. Although there was one exception – the Simsbury Farms Golf Course.
Supporting the exemption, Simsbury’s Parks and Recreation Department chairman spoke at the meeting, saying the proposed ordinance could have a negative revenue impact.
“There’s a reason we said we want to have an exemption,” David Bush said. “The golf course is the only revenue, generating piece of public property, or open space if you will, in the town.”
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