Santa Monica Residents Divide on Issue

The new law has generated some controversy in the beach city. While some think the ban is a step in the right direction, others have their concerns.

By Melissa Pazornik
The Southern California Post

Click to hear! Laura, a Santa Monica resident and mother of two, speaks out about why she supports the new law. Photo: Melissa Pazornik/SoCal Post
Click to hear! Sam owns two restaurants on the Third Street Promenade and is worried the ban will affect his business. Photo: Melissa Pazornik/SoCal Post

Santa Monica tends to be a leader in addressing environmental concerns. Mayor Bob Holbrook is proud to say his town is becoming a "green city" and fully supports the new ban.

"If you do the right things and do them right, it's how we want to behave as a city," said Mayor Holbrook. "We felt we were doing the right thing in trying to protect the health of the people that live here and visit here."

However, some people argue the new ban infringes on their rights.

"Smoking cigarettes is legal, so they're making a legal act illegal," explained Eric, a smoker who attends Santa Monica Community College. "I mean this is public property and I pay my taxes... it's ridiculous that I can't smoke."

Potential Negative Effects
One of the primary arguments against the ban is the possible damage it could do to Santa Monica businesses, including restaurants, retail stores, and bars. People who visit the downtown area, specifically the Third Street Promenade, for example, might be deterred from spending as much time in the area, or even from going at all, because of the fact they might be fined $250 for lighting up.

"Part of the pleasure of being at the Promenade is being able to walk up and down and look at people and smoke cigarettes and drink coffee," said Shelby, who recently moved to the city."I really don't think I will come here as often anymore."

However, Mayor Holbrook does recognize the public's concerns, and is prepared to take action if he does see a problem.

"I'm very concerned about [the businesses], and I want them to be successful, I want them to be happy, I want them to stay here. We make millions and millions of dollars off the sales tax, so I don't want stores and restaurants to be empty. We will watch it and maybe we'll need to market Santa Monica a little bit harder."