SALTILLO, Miss. (WTVA) -- Over 60 cities and towns in Mississippi have moved to ban smoking in public places.
Saltillo could be the next city on that list.
"One of our Aldermen, Brad Woodcock, brought the issue to the board back two or three weeks ago. We had some discussions in that particular meeting that night and the board decided to have a public hearing on the matter, which we will hold on March the fifth at 5:30 here at city hall," said Mayor Bill Williams.
The hearing will allow residents like Gernarro Cole to come voice opinions on the issue.
"I guess it's just an issue that most people are used to right now. Most people do know that it is bad for your health and it might inflict on people around, coming in or out or wherever the situation is. That's just my opinion personally," said Cole.
The mayor says it comes down to property rights.
"If a person owns a piece of property, they will argue that they should be allowed to decide what goes on in that property as long as it is something that is legal and allowed under the law. Which smoking is. It's a legal activity," added the mayor.
Cole also added that the issue is more one of courtesy than rights.
"Well to me, it's fine with me even though I am a smoker. It's healthier for everybody else and should be done," said Cole.
All over the state, smoking is currently banned in government owned buildings.
This ban would focus on indoor regulations.
The public hearing will be held March 5 at 5:30 p.m. at Saltillo City Hall.
