The Fort Collins City Council has been busy in the past year trying to stamp out smoking, and as they look to further expand the city’s smoking ban they are seeking public comment in advance of their Feb. 3 meeting to discuss the matter. The city has recently posted an online, anonymous survey to solicit residents’ feedback on whether the ban should be extended areas: an expanded area of downtown that includes Old Town Square; all city owned or operated facilities and their grounds; all City parks, trails, and natural areas; and most city-approved events and festivals. These changes have been in discussion since last April. Last November, the council approved a smoking ban on restaurant patios, a change that goes into effect on Jan. 17. The start date was pushed back from the originally proposed Jan. 1, and makes it illegal to smoke at an outdoor bar or patio, and prohibits smoking within 20 feet of an outdoor dining area or bus stop for the city’s public transportation system. There are at least 16 bars affected by the change. Currently, Fort Collins prohibits smoking inside restaurants and bars, as well as places of employment, except in locations in which the ...
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