Arlington approves ban on smoking in parks and on trails

ARLINGTON, Wash. -- The Arlington City Council on Monday unanimously approved a ban on smoking, including e-cigarettes, in parks and on trails in town.

"We had a suggested ban on smoking that we put into effect 2006 and that was well-received so I think this will pass," City Councilwoman Marilyn Oertle said before the vote.

Two people testified before the vote, and both were in favor of the proposal, a city spokeswoman said.

Brian Anderson and his wife, Tina, love spending time with their three kids in Haller Park -- and they want nothing to do with smokers.

"It sets a bad example," Brian Anderson said. "It's a bad precedence for the kids, and they is potential health risks. You know, if you're around kids and in close proximity, you know it's not healthy."

Under the proposed ordinance, a smoker could face a $1,000 fine.

Some weren't thrilled with the idea and suggested a smoking area instead.

"If you aren't smoking right next to them, then I think it should be OK, as long as you are 10 feet away or more," said park visitor Brooke Barkquest.

But other parents say it was the right thing to do.

"As a nurse, I deal with a lot of people who have cancer and it's just all-around it's bad, " said Tina Anderson. "So why would we want that around our kids?"

Here is a video report filed earlier in the day Monday, before the vote was taken: