I am writing regarding the recent no-smoking policy implemented by the city of Lewiston and specifically the Lewiston Housing Authority. As of March 1, a no-smoking policy for all of the city’s housing units went into effect, which means all residents who smoke must now go outside to do so. There was no consideration given to the elderly who reside in these units and the Housing Authority has made no effort to assist those affected. During a recent snowstorm, residents were forced to go outside to smoke. The current smoking area that is available for residents at Meadowview is far away from the apartments, unheated and not maintained, so getting to the area with a walker or wheelchair is impossible. The area is not wheelchair accessible.

It is disgraceful and shows a complete lack of respect for residents who smoke. Many of them have smoked for years. They had been allowed to smoke in their apartments up until now, but now they are expected to brave the elements in order to smoke.

The least the Housing Authority could have done was to provide an accessible area for residents to smoke, away from the elements, before the policy went into effect.

I hope those responsible for the policy change will think about all the elderly residents (including my 90-year-old grandmother) outside in the cold in order to smoke.

The city of Lewiston should do better for seniors citizens and the disabled.

Debra Humason-Fulgham, Auburn