Smokers Get Fair Warning Violators Will Be Severely Frowned Upon

The smoking policy at the Spokane Interstate Fair remained hazy on opening day, despite the bold “no-smoking” signs at the fairgrounds entrance.

“One of the gals from the VFW (food booth) said they lifted that ban,” said a carnival worker who identified himself only as Donald. He was puffing a cigarette unapologetically Friday during a break.

Considering the brief history of the ban, it’s easy to see how someone could get the impression it’s been lifted.

County commissioners announced Aug. 27 that smoking would not be allowed during the 10-day fair, ending two frustrating years of trying to corral smokers into specific areas. Commissioner John Roskelley, who championed the ban, said it would make the fair more family-friendly.

Smoking is still allowed in the parking lot and in designated areas just outside the gates. After paying once for admission, fairgoers can come and go without having to pay again.

When the policy was first announced, a Sheriff’s Department spokesman reported that violators could be fined $100. Deputy Dave Reagan later said he had erred in warning of fines, because commissioners had not passed an ordinance, which is required to create a law.

Sheriff Mark Sterk went further on Thursday, telling commissioners in an e-mail message that the ban couldn’t be enforced, except inside buildings where smoking has long been banned.

But Friday afternoon, Sterk and Commissioner Kate McCaslin issued a joint press release saying deputies will ask smokers to put out their cigarettes or go to one of the designated areas outside the gates. According to the statement, deputies may issue misdemeanor trespassing citations to those who refuse.

McCaslin said commissioners never expected deputies to issue fines for smoking. Neither does she expect them to have to issue trespassing citations.

“Most people are considerate and are going to comply with the rules,” she said.

One fair worker, who didn’t give her name, said her plan is to ask once for compliance, then drop the matter.

“I’m not going to try and wrestle no cigarette from nobody,” she said.