Smoking may soon be banned entirely from all South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District facilities, including its many parks.

The board of commissioners discussed the matter of smoking on district property at a regular business meeting Wednesday. Director Doug Coutts said staff have been removing old signs which stated there was no smoking allowed on parks property because state law only mandates the prohibition of smoking within 25 feet of any public entrance.

Coutts said the district’s current policy is in line with state law.

This leaves a grey area concerning areas such as outdoor picnic areas and pavilions that should be addressed, he said.

Commissioner Matt Simms said he had never seen anyone smoking in the parks in his 17 years living on South Whidbey, though commissioner Bob Hezel said he had seen one or two smokers in the parks.

Tom Fallon, facility and grounds supervisor, said the skate park was a problem area for smoking and resultant cigarette butts.

“Cigarette butts are the bane of my existence,” he said.

Simms suggested making the policy simple, and maintaining a “no smoking” policy, or creating a designated smoking area.

Coutts said he will present some sample policies for the commissioners to consider at next month’s meeting.