In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the potential establishment of a vape shop in the downtown area, raising concerns about fire safety due to the building's combustible construction. The conversation highlighted the need for stricter regulations regarding the quantity of batteries stored on-site, with fire department oversight proposed to ensure compliance.
Officials noted that the downtown square, built primarily in the late 1800s and early 1900s, features predominantly combustible materials, which could pose a significant fire hazard. The discussion included comparisons to existing businesses, such as restaurants, which are subject to different safety regulations due to their cooking operations and the installation of fire suppression systems.
Concerns were raised about the age restrictions for customers at vape shops, with officials indicating that while there may be state regulations, local ordinances do not currently impose specific age limits. The meeting concluded with a consensus that any new vape shop would need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering both safety and regulatory compliance.