UPDATE: Grand Forks restaurants are facing scrutiny as they adapt to North Dakota’s newly implemented anti-smoking law, which has sparked complaints from patrons. This law, effective July 1, 1987, requires public spaces to designate smoking areas and has created a divide among local dining establishments regarding compliance and customer satisfaction.
In a recent visit by the Grand Forks Herald on November 19, 1987, staff reported significant disparities in how restaurants are handling the new regulations. With the Great American Smokeout approaching, the investigation highlights the urgent need for clear policies as many diners express dissatisfaction with their experiences in smoke-filled environments.
The law states that smoking areas in public places, such as restaurants, cannot exceed 50 percent of total seating. However, it allows for expansion beyond this limit if demand necessitates it. Furthermore, seating arrangements must minimize smoke drift, a requirement that several establishments are struggling to meet.
At the Royal Fork Buffet, management has proactively designated 60 percent of its seating for non-smokers, utilizing a 5-foot wall to separate the two zones. Manager Darl Bruner noted that patrons have shown understanding, often willing to wait for a non-smoking table. In contrast, the Tomahawk Cafe has created equally sized smoking and non-smoking sections, yet lacks adequate barriers to prevent smoke from drifting.
The Grand Forks Public Health Department revealed that only a handful of complaints—around three or four—have been reported since the law took effect. Debbie Swanson, a public health nurse, mentioned one caller who was frustrated after being seated next to smokers despite requesting a non-smoking table. Complaints are forwarded to the state’s Health Department for investigation.
Meanwhile, other restaurants like the Shangri-La Restaurant and LaCampana Mexican Restaurant have faced challenges due to inadequate separation between smoking and non-smoking areas. At LaCampana, only one-third of the seating is non-smoking, but renovations are underway to create a dedicated non-smoking space by the end of the month.
As restaurants navigate these new regulations, the emotional toll on customers seeking smoke-free dining experiences is palpable. Many diners are now more conscious of their seating preferences, and restaurant owners are feeling the pressure to comply with the law while maintaining customer satisfaction.
The situation continues to evolve as establishments work to meet the requirements and address customer complaints. As the community adapts to these changes, the effectiveness of the new law remains under close observation. Moving forward, local health officials and restaurant owners must collaborate to ensure that the needs of both smokers and non-smokers are fairly met, fostering a more comfortable dining environment for everyone.
Stay tuned for further updates on how Grand Forks restaurants are responding to this urgent issue and what measures are being implemented to improve the dining experience for all patrons.
