American Legion Post 86 has suffered of late as a result of the public smoking ordinance enacted by the City Commission. The ordinance prohibits smoking in all public places with the exception of restaurants and bars where it’s allowed only after 10:30 p.m. Private clubs are included, and while the Legion’s mature membership still enjoys some good company and a drink or two in the evening, few want to wait until the late TV news is over just to have a smoke.
The good news for members is that the City Commission repealed its smoking ordinance Tuesday night, deferring to the state law that took effect July 1. The state’s version is in some ways stricter than the city ordinance. It effectively bars smoking on downtown sidewalks. In one important way, however, the Legislature took a more relaxed approach.
Class A clubs such as Post 86 can decide for themselves whether smoking should be permitted on their premises. Comradery and fellowship can now begin at a more reasonable hour, and a meeting place for our community’s veterans can remain financially viable.
Class B clubs and casinos are also exempt from the provisions of the new state law, but the city of Pratt has none of those, and only one other Class A establishment — the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.
Commissioner Willy Peltier, a physician’s assistant at Pratt Regional Medical Center, abstained when the vote was taken Tuesday night. The ill effects of smoking have been of paramount concern to him, and any nonsmokers who enjoy the companionship of their fellows at Post 86 will be exposed to secondhand smoke. Peltier’s position is understandable. It’s important to remember, however, that Legion members have decided smoking will be allowed, and no one seems to be objecting.
The city also benefits from the repeal of its ordinance. The Legion leases its facility from the city. If the organization were to close its doors, the building and grounds would become the responsibility of taxpayers.
Even a cloud of smoke can have a silver lining.
