Smoking ban battle coming to a head
CHARLESTON — The standoff between health officials in West Virginia’s largest county and a bar owner who flagrantly violates a smoking ban is coming to a head.
Blackhawk Saloon Kerry “Paco” Ellison says he won’t pay two invoices for a total of $175 for health inspections at his bar. Instead, Ellison says he plans to use them as wallpaper.
Kanawha-Charleston Health Department Environmental Director Anita Ray says that if Ellison doesn’t pay, Blackhawk will lose its health permit, followed by its liquor license.
Since the county banned smoking in bars and other public places, Ellison has encouraged patrons to smoke and sponsored several smokers’ nights at the Blackhawk Saloon.
The health department has given Ellison until Sept. 27 to pay the inspection bills.
Copyright © September 09, 2009 Herald-dispatch
