The Newton County Recreation Commission presented the Newton County Board of Commissioners with a proposed ordinance that would prohibit the use of tobacco products at county parks and recreation facilities.

The ordinance, which was presented at a Tuesday work session, would ban tobacco use in the proximity of children and adults visiting Newton County owned or operated parks and recreational facilities. According to the ordinance, tobacco use in these areas is detrimental to children and adults' health and can be offensive to those using these facilities.

Recreation Director Tommy Hailey along with members of recreation commission discussed why they created the ordinance and felt it was needed.

"NCRC is not trying to take away any adult's right to use tobacco products," he said. "However, we want everyone to enjoy our parks without having to worry about the harmful effects of any tobacco products on children whose lungs and bodies are still developing."

A vote on the proposed ordinance is schedule for the next county commission meeting in December.

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