HARTSVILLE, SC -- The Hartsville City Council passed first reading of an ordinance last Tuesday that would prohibit the use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, in city parks. The city already bans smoking in city-owned buildings.

There are five city parks in Hartsville.

Some Hartsville City Council members say they often get calls from parents who were concerned about their children being exposed to second-hand smoke at parks, in particular Byerly Park.

The Parks and Leisure Services Department is responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of Byerly Park, a multi-use recreation complex on 14th Street and Russell Road. Byerly Park has six soccer fields, two football fields, horseshoe pits, six tennis courts, a 1.2 mile walking/jogging/biking trail, plus eight softball/baseball fields; an eight-lane track and field facility, two playgrounds and the Coach T.B. Thomas Sports Center.

Some council members argue banning smoking in the parks would create a more family-friendly environment.

Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed ordinance May 9th at 6 p.m. in council chambers at Hartsville Town Hall on West Carolina Avenue. Council is expected to vote on the ordinance that same day.

What do you think about a ban on smoking in public parks?