What are some of the components of a proposed smoke-free ordinance in Otter Tail County?
The ordinance was outlined for the Perham City Council June 26, by Dan Peterson, Perham Memorial Hospital.
The bottom line, said Peterson, is that "limiting areas where persons can smoke has been one of the most effective measures in reducing smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke."
Private clubs, bingo halls and very small bars with limited seating are exempt from the proposed ordinance. According to the Otter Tail County survey, there are only 14 such establishments in the county.
Also exempt are resorts and lodging facilities, County grounds and parks, fairgrounds and festival grounds.
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About 67 of the county's restaurants (without liquor licenses) will be subject to the smoking ban March 31, 2007.
By June 30, the ban will be extended the estimated 66 establishments serving food and alcohol.
Also on June 30, 2007, private clubs, such as VFW or Legion clubs will be restricted--but only when the facility is hosting an event for the general public, the exception is Bingo.
Smoking will be banned at medical facilities, inside or outside the building, on Sept. 30 2007--including dental offices, clinics, and chiropractors.
Bowling lanes would be restricted starting Sept. 30, 2007. There are six bowling facilities in Otter Tail County.
