FARGO - Randy Thorson plans to monitor the results of a proposed citywide smoking ban at the Old Broadway, his downtown Fargo restaurant and bar. His bar allows smoking. The restaurant doesn't.

"If we're winning, I will be on the smoking side," said Thorson, who is a spokesman for a group of about 20 bar owners who are against changing a Fargo city ordinance that allows people to light up in bars and truck stops.

Thorson's group is worried that a ban could shut down businesses and hurt charitable gambling sites. Barry Nelson, spokesman for the group that collected signatures to get the issue on the ballot, said it has nothing to do with business.

"This is completely, 100 percent, a health issue for me," Nelson said. "I just cannot see how business interests can trump health interests."

West Fargo voters will consider an ordinance that would also prohibit smoking in bars and truck stops, although it would take effect on July 1 only if Fargo residents approve similar restrictions.

"This issue has been around for many years," said Rich Mattern, West Fargo mayor. "Whenever you are dealing with a social issue like that, it's one of those things where people are passionate on both sides. The key will be which side can get their people to come out."

Both votes come less than four years after residents in the two cities decided to place smoking restrictions on restaurants, but not in most stand-alone bars.

Some voters in Fargo said afterward they were confused because there were three smoking measures on the ballot. This time, there are two - one that would continue to allow smoking in bars and truck stops, and a second that would ban it.

"We've certainly felt the need to get the word out," said Nelson, asked if was worried about more confusion at the polls. "We know there's that possibility when you get two measures that are two versions of the same thing."

Rachel Asleson, a supporter of the smoking ban, said she got involved in the campaign because of her frustration with the 2004 vote.

"I didn't think it was very clear in the last election. None of it made sense," Asleson said. "It would have been nice to one clear-cut question this time, too, but I think it's easier to understand than last time."

Thorson, 54, owns Old Broadway, which has a bar and two restaurants, and two other bars, Borrowed Bucks and Mr. G's. He also owns CI Sport, a clothing company.

"I've become the spokesman for the smoking issue, but there are a lot of people who have a tremendous concern for our businesses and our livelihood," Thorson said.

Asleson, 35, said she's hoping the election results will keep Thorson on the nonsmoking side of his restaurant.

"I would be happy to join him on that side," she said.