The owner of B2B Gas tried to convince the Board of Health that a $300 fine for violating town tobacco bylaws was uncalled for because it was his first offense. Board members were unmoved by his argument, but did say they would consider making new business owners in town better aware of the regulations.

On Wednesday, Marwan Imad, who owns the gas station located at 3199 Cranberry Highway, said board members should reconsider the fine.

“You don’t want to push away new businesses,” said Imad. “You want to welcome them.”

Imad purchased B2B Gas six months ago and said he’s been trying to drum up business with a number of promotions, including a free car giveaway.

Board members fined Imad for selling flavored tobacco products, which is illegal to do in Wareham, and for selling individual cigars for less than is allowed under town regulations. Imad said once he was made aware of the violations, he removed the flavored products and changed prices immediately.

Board members were unmoved, saying he received a copy of the rules.

“You’ve got to know what the regulations are,” said Health Agent Robert Ethier. “That’s your responsibility.”

Chair Dr. Amy Weigandt said while new businesses in town receive a visit from the Health Department explaining the rules, when an existing business changes hands that’s not the case.

She said the board may consider condensing the regulations into a shorter, easier to read format for new business owners.