In Sunday’s edition, reporters Margaret Gillerman and Paul Hampel wrote a story about a man poised to fight proposed “smoke-free” zones in Clayton. Read the story by clicking this sentence.

The idea of a smoking ban in the St. Charles area isn’t new. Last year, St. Charles city officials discussed the idea and ultimately opposed holding a referendum on the November ballot.

Last month, the mayors of five adjacent cities in St. Louis County–Clayton, Creve Coeur, Olivette, Overland and University City–asked the County Council to ban smoking in public places.

Cities and counties have shown reluctance to adopt smoking bans, concerned about putting their businesses at a disadvantage against competitors from neighboring communities.

What do you think? Should St. Charles County ban smoking in public places? Should it be done statewide?

1. Is it time to ban smoking in St. Charles County? Why or why not?
2. Should the government dictate when and where you light up?
3. Do you avoid certain St. Charles-area bars and restaurants because of the smoke? Which ones?
4. Do you patronize certain businesses because they allow smoking? Which ones?