BLOOMINGTON - A Twin Cities anti-smoking group is disappointed by Bloomington City Council's split response to a possible ban on smoking, but the Normal City Council remains on track to vote on a proposed ordinance.

"They have no intention of doing anything we can support," said Dr. John Krueger, a spokesman for the smoke-free campaign. "This is a health issue, there can be no compromise."

Normal Mayor Chris Koos agreed and said while initially he and Bloomington Mayor Steve Stockton hoped the two communities could find common ground, after Monday's Bloomington City Council meeting "it looks doubtful."

Koos said Normal still is set to vote May 1 on an ordinance that would virtually ban smoking in all indoor public places.

"My desire was to hear what the City of Bloomington was thinking about doing," Koos said. "They had a pretty good discussion (Monday night)."

Only Bloomington Alderman Kevin Huette said he would support an outright ban of smoking.

Three others said they would be hesitant to vote on a ban that would prohibit smoking in taverns and restaurants unless there is a compromise between the Smoke Free Coalition and the Independent Tavern and Restaurant Establishments. Three other aldermen said they don't want an ordinance at all.

Peter Connolly, manager of Maggie Miley's in downtown Normal, said if Normal bans smoking and Bloomington doesn't, "it will have a drastic impact on a lot of bars and restaurants in Normal. Our food sales may go up slightly, but bar sales will completely drop."

Connolly said a smoking survey one night at the pub showed 65 percent of the patrons were smokers.

Bloomington Alderman Mike Matejka suggested the coalition and the tavern and restaurant owners meet, possibly this week. The Bloomington City Council likely will vote on an ordinance May 8 but could vote as early as April 24.

Krueger said the coalition would like to meet and discuss its options before it makes any decisions about meeting with the tavern and restaurant owner's group.

Meanwhile, Krueger said taking the issue to a referendum in Bloomington may not be feasible or in the coalition's best interest because the council would not be bound by the results. In home rule communities such as Bloomington and Normal referendums are non-binding.

Kruger said his group will continue to press the Normal City Council to approve its ordinance May 1.

Given the number of council members who want the issue resolved, Koos said he fully expects the vote will take place as planned.