August 4 was the fourth time in as many months the Administration/Public Works Committee has heard testimony from Wildwood residents, including 12 young people from Rockwood Valley Middle School, two high school students, a few adult supporters and a couple of Wildwood residents who also happen to operate bars in the city.  All but two of the citizens present were supporters of the smoking ban, and the council did hear and acknowledge testimony from two bar and restaurant owners.  About 50 people attended the meeting, and after hearing testimony they reviewed and made motions to amend sections of the ordinance. Most of the discussion centered on definitions of public places‹including outdoor venues. A general highlight of the ordinance as presented will include a ban of smoking within 20 feet from any place of business or public place.

Questions arose during the August 4 meeting about the duplication of a non-smoking ordinance during the Wildwood meeting, since Wildwood is within St. Louis County, but one of the city council members said that in checking with the city attorney, the more restrictive ordinance will prevail in this case and that would be the Wildwood City proposal.