Smoking To Be Banned In Hagerstown Parks

HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) -- Smoking is set to be banned at Hagerstown's city-owned parks.

The policy takes effect Monday. It includes all city parks and the downtown University Plaza. The Hagerstown Greens at Hamilton Run golf course and designated areas of Municipal Stadium are exempt.

Signs announcing the ban will be posted in all parks. Failure to obey the new law carries a $20 fine for the first and second violations, and a $200 fine for each subsequent violation.

The Hagerstown City Council approved the ordinance last month.

Mayor David Gysberts, a former smoker, tells The Herald-Mail of Hagerstown he wants the parks to be clean, safe and welcoming.

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