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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMatt McKenney re Smoking OrdinanceFrom:Roxanne Rodriguez To:Matthew McKenney Cc:City Clerk; Lindsey-Paige McCloy Subject:RE: Smoking Ordinance Feedback Date:Monday, December 16, 2024 3:23:59 PM Attachments:image001.png Good afternoon, Thank you for your email. Your comment will be shared with the City Council and retained as part of the official record. Thank you, Roxanne Rodriguez | Executive Administrative Assistant | Office of the City Clerk Roxanne.Rodriguez@PalmSpringsCA.gov (760) 323-8204 (760) 883-77123200 E. Tahquitz Canyon WayPalm Springs, CA 92262www.PalmSpringsCA.govCONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE - This message is intended only for the addresses shown above. It may contain informationthat is privileged, confidential, or otherwise protected from disclosure. Any review, dissemination, or use of thistransmission or its contents by persons other than the addressee is strictly prohibited. If you have received this messagein error, please notify the sender immediately at (760) 323-8204. Palm Springs City Hall is open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., closed Fridays. From: Matthew McKenney <matt.r.mckenney@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, December 16, 2024 3:09 PM To: City Clerk <CityClerk@palmspringsca.gov> Subject: Smoking Ordinance Feedback NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Dear Members of the Sustainability Commission, I am writing to express my concern related to the impact of the proposed smoking ordinance on LGBTQ+ and other inclusive places. Queer history is filled with traditions, one of which are cigar social events which provide a safe space for gay men and women to bond, socialize and share history and customs. As a frequent visitor to the Palm Springs area, from an area that does not value these meeting places - I am concerned about the proposed expansion of the smoking ordinance and its detrimental effects on these queer gathering events. I also believe if the smoking ban goes forward as described it would have a detrimental effect on your local economy, tourism, several events my partner and I regularly attend contain a cigar social and smoking themes. Palm Springs is renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife, with bars serving as essential social hubs. Implementing a smoking ban in these establishments, including their outdoor patios, could lead to a decline in patronage, adversely affecting local businesses and the city’s economy. I urge the Commission to: - Remove the Term “Drink”: Exclude bars and their outdoor patios from the proposed smoking restrictions to prevent economic harm and negative perceptions. - Engage with the Community: Involve LGBTQ+ community members and business owners in discussions to understand the cultural significance of these spaces and the potential impact of the proposed ordinance. - Preserve Outdoor Patios (or ant minimum an option for a business to exclude themselves) By taking these steps, the Commission can ensure that any policy changes are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and supportive of the diverse communities that make Palm Springs unique. Thank you for considering my perspective on this critical issue. Sincerely, Matt McKenney Charlotte, NC