Ban Smoking in Decatur Parks?

On Monday, the Atlanta City Council approved an ordinance that bans smoking in city parks.

Violators of the ordinance, which awaits Mayor Kasim Reed's signature, face fines of up to $1,000. The legislation exempts city-owned proprerties that are under lease agreements with private vendors, such as the Chastain Amphitheater.

Other cities and even some counties have already taken this step.

Patch asked Decatur City Manager Peggy Merriss about smoking in parks, and she replied:

"Smoking is not allowed during City of Decatur events and activities as an administrative rule of the Active Living Department. The City has not adopted an all-out ban in parks/public spaces but several City Commissioners have brought it up and I expect it will continue to be a topic of conversation and likely something that will be considered."

Do you think Decatur should take this step and ban smoking in parks? Should Decatur ban smoking in all public places, even sidewalks?