Q: I see no reason to ban smoking outside. It is insulting to smokers who are not littering or otherwise infringing on other’s rights.
A: Thank you for your recent comment to the Co-op regarding your feelings on the issue of a ban on smoking on Co-op property. Debate and dialogue is part of the life of any cooperative and your thoughts help in that process.
The Board of Directors made the difficult decision to discontinue the sale of tobacco and ban its use on Co-op property after two years of discussion and debate. What was clear from the debate was that the Board was not making judgments about smokers, but did have strong opinions about the effects of tobacco. Their decision was out of concern regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use. Moreover, they did not feel that supporting the sale or use was in any way a benefit to the membership of the Co-op.
You are correct in pointing out that the use of tobacco products by smokers does not infringe on other peoples’ rights, and the Board of Directors has heard and discussed that point. In the end, however, they chose to make the decision they did.
Thank you again for taking the time to express your opinion on this issue. I will pass your comments on to the Board.
Sincerely,
Terry Appleby
General Manager
Hanover Consumer Co-op
