WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. — Starting Jan. 1, smokers won't be able to light up in any public space, especially ones that serve food.
Williamstown is the first Northern Kentucky city to pass a smoking ban like this. It even includes outdoor spaces. No smoking is allowed within 25 feet of a window or entrance to a business serving the public.
That includes hotels, bars and restaurants, like Eduardo's Pizza and Pub on Main. Ed Clemons, the owner of Eduardo's, said half his business during the summer comes from smokers in their outdoor patio.
"In the state of Kentucky, Grant County has one of the highest rates of smoking, so I can see why the county is trying to turn that around," he said. "I can see the understanding behind it. I wish they had consulted with some of the local businesses first."
Some restaurant owners are hoping to work with the city council to limit the ban on outdoor seating.
"We are hoping in about six months ... to see about getting an amendment to the ordinance," Clemons said.
In the meantime, a first offense could get you a warning. A second or third offense could get your slapped with a fine of $100 or more.
