Most of those responding to this week’s online poll about Petaluma’s pending new smoking ordinance , which would implement stricter rules on where people can smoke in public places, thought that the changes were a good idea. About 56 percent agreed with the changes, while about 40 percent disagreed. About 4 percent weren’t sure.
Here were some of the comments.
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“I agree: As a former smoker who quit in 1969, I am a firm believer that second hand smoke is just as bad for you as smoking, the smell of smoke really makes me sick.”
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“Big Brother is watching you in Petaluma. Next it will be rationing of chocolate.”
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“Yes. Definitely. I am so tired of inhaling other peoples’ smoke. And it only takes two seconds for that smoke to get in your hair and on your clothes. I have nothing against people who wish to smoke, but you should be sensitive to those who choose not to smoke.”
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“I am not a smoker. I am just tired of the nanny culture being espoused by all facets of our government. Smoking in apartments should be handled by the landlords. Anyway, are the cops going to respond? I doubt it. More important things to do.”
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“I understand that people really hate cigarette smoking, but this is going too far. Smokers shouldn’t be shut out of the housing market like this. Another example of the tyranny of the majority, and the growing nanny state.”
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The owner of a rental complex should be able to decide if he or she wants their complex to be smoking or non smoking. It should be stated in the lease and that way renters can decide if they want to live there or not. They could also make it half and half. Maybe one section of the complex could be smoking and one not. Either way, the owner should decide. He or she bought and paid for this piece of property and pays dearly for it every year in taxes. A bus stop is different. If its raining or hot and someone is sitting waiting for the bus and someone wants to smoke next to them because they can’t wait. then they should have to walk away and when finished be able to get their seat back.”
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