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September 29, 2003
Dear Ms. Mancini:
Thank you for your e-mail about this important issue. Cities across the country
- including just 75 miles to our east in Lexington - have been wrestling with
the public policy and public health questions posed by a smoking ban. One thing
is clear: we all share a concern about how smoking and second-hand smoke impact
the health of our community. In
Louisville,
as you know, several grassroots organizations are proposing an ordinance to ban
smoking in public buildings to address those serious health concerns.
Many Metro Council members have indicated that they are willing to listen to
proposals, but they believe the issue will require significant study to ensure
that we are addressing the health issues involved and the concerns that many
businesses have about how a ban will impact them. In response, I've asked the
Health Department to research what other communities are doing relative to this
important issue. I've also asked for the latest research on the potential health
and business impacts. At the same time, the Health Department will be putting in
place a mechanism for public and community input about this proposal by the end
of the year.
I want the Metro Council to have the most complete information possible, while
also gaining public input, to make a decision that benefits our community and
moves it forward. I think it's important and healthy for our community to be
engaged in this discussion. I'm looking forward to the information and input
we'll gather. I hope you will continue to stay involved in this issue and stay
in touch as it proceeds. Thanks for your email and your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Jerry E. Abramson
Mayor
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