Macon Mayor Vetoes Smoking Ban

Macon Mayor Robert Reichert is overriding a recently passed smoking ban for the city. The bill passed 9 to 6 in city council last Tuesday, and brought a lot of criticism from smokers, and non-smokers across the city. According to the Mayor’s spokesperson, Clay Murphey, Mayor Reichert says his decision to veto the ban, is based on the fact that this ordinance is “excessively broad and includes public parks as well as all other open spaces.” The Mayor also believes the process in passing the ordinance was flawed, and did not provide adequate opportunities for citizens, health officials, property and business owners to voice their opinions and concerns prior to the vote.  Mayor Reichert hopes city council will work to address those issues, and pass a joint ordinance.