Milford's Recreation Department is considering a smoking ban at Little League fields and possibly parks, beaches and other recreation areas after receiving complaints about second-hand smoke.
City officials said the proposed ban is in the early stages and will be addressed at a Parks, Beach and Recreation Commission meeting tonight.
Residents are invited to voice their opinions at the beginning of the meeting and their feedback will be taken into consideration as the commission decides if and when a ban will take effect.
"They could create a policy which would create smoke-free or smoke- and tobacco-free environments at recreation areas," Milford Recreation Director Paul Piscitelli said.
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Piscitelli said the department has received complaints over the last few years about smoking at ball fields.
"I think it's about time to emphasize the problem with smoking around children," said Hector Medina, who is concerned about exposing his grandchildren to second-hand smoke. "I mean, you can't even smoke in a bar around adults. Why would you want to smoke around children in parks?"
Municipal health and recreation officials said it's not just about second-hand smoke, but also about setting an example for youth and reducing litter.
Chris Stan, spokesman for the state's Department of Health, said of the state's 169 municipalities, 12 have smoke-free parks and beaches.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
