Prop N Story: KSDK Channel 5 St. Louis

KSDK -- The decision is yours. On November 3, St. Louis County voters will have the chance to weigh in on the hotly contested county-wide smoking ban, and those on all sides of the issue are working hard to have their voices heard.

In the Loop Wednesday morning, the opposition, which includes smokers as well as smoke shop and bowling alley owners, gathered to discuss reasons to vote 'No' against Proposition N. They said the bill will drive those in the county to go elsewhere to do business and, therefore, cause a loss of jobs and revenue.

The law would exempt casinos, private residences, cigar bars and airport smoking lounges. Some of those for it wish there weren't exemptions, but have said this is as good as it's going to get right now.

"Even though smoking is very unpopular, by putting in these restrictions, we embolden government to take away other freedoms, other property rights in the future," said Bill Hannegan, director of Keep St. Louis Free. "I think it's very important for county voters to draw a line in the sand and tell government, 'No further.'"

"As such, do I think it's a good bill? Yes, it's miles ahead of what we've got right now," said Charles Gatton, chairman of County Citizens for Cleaner Air. "It accomplishes most of what we could ask for in terms of cleaner air."

Those who oppose the bill plan to make their next stop at the Board of Aldermen meeting Friday morning at 10.