How far to ban tobacco use?

A former Walhalla policeman who is now a city councilman suggested last night his colleagues would be inconsiderate of police officers and fire fighters by prohibiting them and other city workers from using tobacco products while on duty. David Underwood cast the only no vote on first reading of an ordinance amending the smoking policy as it applies to city government. Chairman James Powell of the Police Committee conceded Underwood has a point and he asked the former police captain what he would suggest as a solution. Underwood said he thinks the city should consider designating a smoking area on city property. Councilman Josh Holliday, who works for the Oconee School District, said the district’s decision to make all schools and school property smoke-free, for some, was a difficult adjustment, but has proved worth it for everyone’s overall health.