Dog and smoking ban eyed for Westlake Park
SEATTLE -- Seattle city officials are considering a ban on dogs and smoking in downtown's Westlake Park. The city's park board discussed it at a meeting Thursday night. They've received about two dozen emails from people who live around the park, and nearby businesses, who are asking for the ban. It stems from a new children's play area, which was installed in the park last winter.
Those who are complaining say smoke often drifts into the play area, and there are a number of pit bulls who are frequently walked in the park.
Smoking and dogs are banned at all play areas throughout the city, but the new park is a legal gray area. The board of park commissioners has asked staffers to analyze the issue, and report back to the board at its September 26th meeting.