Smoking continues to go unregulated
MCC’s Mission:
. . .promote excellence. . ., preparing individuals for active citizenship. . . ultimate purpose is to improve the quality of life in the community we serve.1994: “nearly 75%” [of Mesa voters] “support a complete ban on smoking in public places,” (O’neil Associates Valley Monitor Poll).
1996: “No person shall smoke in any public place when the public gathers together for any purpose. . ., except . . .in a designated smoking area meeting all the requirements of this Chapter. . .”
“It is unlawful . . .to allow minors to enter any area where smoking is permitted. . .unless each minor is accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian.” (Mesa City Code)
2006: “. . .the average MCC student in instructor Maria Martell’s Spanish 101 class is 15. (Mesa Legend)
2008: “Based on a review of State and City smoking ordinances and recommendations by our legal department, Mesa Community College, at Southern and Dobson, will be posting signs stating ‘Smoking Permitted in Designated Areas Only’.” (MCC’s OHS office)
Aone-campus “policy”–ignoring much of city law, disregarding the community’s wishes, and illegally allowing exposure of children to lethal and addictive chemicals–serves the community, improves quality of life, and prepares citizens?
I hardly think so.
-Beatty Dimit
