The Kanawha-Charleston Board of Health opened a 30-day comment period today seeking public input on a Mardi Gras Casino and Resort proposal that would amend the existing Kanawha County Clean Indoor Air Regulation to allow smoking in a segregated portion of the casino.
 
Last fall, Mardi Gras Casino and Resort made a presentation to the Board of Health detailing the proposed construction. On Thursday, March 20, board members voted to allow for a public comment period before considering any potential amendment or rule change to Kanawha County’s regulation. At this time, no specific amendment has been made to the Clean Indoor Air Regulation, and the casino’s proposal only asks for a variance for cigarette smoking, not pipes, cigars or vaping.
    
Board President Jeremy Nelson said board members value public opinion. “This is a sensitive issue for many. It’s also an important decision for a popular business in Kanawha County," Nelson said. “We want to hear from all sides and welcome viewpoints from individuals, organizations, and businesses. We know this conversation may be difficult, but we won’t shy away."

Written public comments will be accepted beginning Monday, March 24, until Friday, May 2, at 4 p.m. Board members will only consider written comments accompanied by the author’s name, affiliated organization (if any), contact information including, but not limited to, phone number, e-mail address, physical address, and county of residence. Anonymous public comments will not be considered, and comments received outside of the 30-day comment period will not be considered.
 
“We ask that those who have previously made a verbal or written comment to us regarding this issue, please submit their viewpoint in writing within the designated comment period,” Nelson explained. “We want to keep everything consistent, contained and clear to help board members consider this matter.”
 
A copy of Mardi Gras Casino and Resort’s presentation and the current Kanawha County Clean Indoor Air Regulation will be available beginning at noon on Monday, March 25, on the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department’s website at www.kchd.wv.gov
 
Public comments must be sent via email to kchdwvboh@yahoo.com or via U.S. Postal Service to the following address:
Kanawha-Charleston Board of Health
Attn: CIAR Public Comment
P.O. Box 927
Charleston, WV 25323