The Lee County Board of Supervisors is considering whether to restrict smoking and vaping in county parks, particularly around playgrounds and beaches. The Daily Democrat reports the discussion came after Kris Rankin of Fort Madison Strive returned to the board to advocate for policies aimed at reducing youth exposure to nicotine and tobacco products. Rankin said seeing smoking and vaping around children can make those behaviors seem normal.
Board Chair Ginger Knisley said a countywide ban in parks would be difficult, particularly for campers, but said she would support restrictions around playgrounds.
Rankin pointed to surveys at Keokuk parks that found cigarette butts near playground areas, including multiple bags of cigarette butts around benches at Rand Park. She also said some existing signs prohibit smoking but do not specifically mention vaping.
