City Councilor Calls for Action to Limit Smoke and Vape Retailers in Bristol
BRISTOL — City Councilor Cheryl Thibault urged immediate action to limit the rapid spread of smoke and vape retailers across Bristol, calling her request a “desperate plea” to protect local youth.
Council Moves to Restrict Shop Locations
At Tuesday’s council meeting Thibault introduced a motion asking the Zoning Commission to adopt rules restricting where and how many smoke and vape shops can operate. The City Council approved the motion and emphasized that zoning adjustments, rather than a city ordinance, are the appropriate tool. Any changes now rest with the independent zoning board.
Public Health Concerns and Community Feedback
Thibault said she has received numerous complaints from residents in recent months and cited public health research showing potential lung damage from vaping among young people. While supporting free enterprise, she warned that the businesses are “appearing everywhere” and shaping how Bristol is perceived.
Proposed Zoning Restrictions
Her motion asks the Zoning Commission to set minimum distances between smoke shops and school...