Panel Rejects Ban on Alcohol, Cigarette Ads

Despite a plea from residents and activists for a ban on alcohol and cigarette billboards, the Carson Planning Commission has unanimously approved an ordinance allowing them if they are in a commercial zone and more than 1,000 feet from schools, parks, playgrounds and child-care centers.

The ordinance, which requires the City Council’s approval, was adopted by the commission earlier this week. A spokeswoman for the city said the issue will probably be heard by the council in May.

The Black Women’s Media Project, which led a successful drive for a citywide ban on alcohol and tobacco billboards in Compton last year--the first in the state--launched a campaign last month for a similar law in Carson. The group collected 500 postcards from residents who favored a ban.

“We’re disappointed with the commission’s decision,” said Kris Bailey, project director. “A thousand feet does nothing. Kids travel farther than 1,000 feet just to get to of school.”

Planning commissioners could not be reached for comment.