Anti-smoking activists showed up at the May 5 meeting to support Councilor Michael Cadigan’s anti-smoking bill even though it was not on the agenda. Cadigan said a great deal of misinformation had been spread about the bill, which adopts state law as city law and eliminates an exemption allowing smoking in retail tobacco stores.Cadigan said his bill did not affect private clubs such as Monte’s Pueblo Pipe Shop. He said cigar bars must have a state permit and a liquor license and none are licensed in New Mexico.In other actions, councilors unanimously approved an agreement with Citylink Fiber Holdings. The company will run a fiber-optic network though public rights of way in return for free, high-speed Internet access for city buildings and schools.Councilors also approved a zone change allowing a hotel with a liquor license at the old Memorial Hospital building at Central and I-25. The property’s Santa Fe owners plan to renovate the building into high-end lodging.Councilors Isaac Benton and Debbie O’Malley were excused for the evening.
Council Watch
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