Carlisle to begin fining those who use tobacco in town parks

Carlisle is cracking down on tobacco use in parks, and the fine could be up to $1000.

Shortly after the beginning of the year, Carlisle Borough Council passed an ordinance with no debate and no public comment. Set to take effect in two weeks, the measure will ban the use of any tobacco products in all borough parks.

Carlisle has 18 public parks, from passive pasture-like areas to sporting fields and playground equipment. They range in size from less than an acre to 18 acres.

At popular Letort Park, two young children were feeding the ducks Thursday afternoon. Another family was playing in the wooden fort.

But Thursday, new signs were being installed. What the sign means is you can no longer display, distribute, use chew, discard, light or smoke any tobacco product.

The idea for the ban came from a resident.

Borough crews will continue installing the signs. The prohibition will begin as soon as that jobs done but no later than March 15.

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