Dozens of concerned business owners and residents packed Birmingham city council chambers Wednesday afternoon to discuss a proposed smoking ordinance that would ban smoking in most public areas. Smoking outside would be restricted within 30 feet of buildings.
"It would cost me employees and probably my business," said Marty Eagle.
Eagle, who owns Marty's, a bar on Birmingham's Southside, joined many business owners to voice concerns for several provisions in the ordinance.
"'You can pretty much close the doors' is what one guy said," said Rogue Tavern manager Jake Davidson.
Since 2005, many places, including restaurants and elevators, have had to comply with the city's current smoking ordinance. The proposed ban would broaden the rules to bars, lounges, arenas, stadiums and many hotels.
"I want to live in a city that's actually healthy," said P.J. Rossi, a Birmingham resident who spoke in favor of the ordinance. "
Councilman Johnathan Austin, the public safety committee's chairman, said the council will review concerns before making a recommendation on a draft to present before the full council March 7.
"There are two ways to look at this issue," said Austin. "I think the way we should all look at it is what is in the best interest of the public health."
