Joining scores of other public agencies in Oregon, the Northwest and U.S., the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District will become completely smoke-free starting Feb. 1, 2014.
The smoking ban applies to all grounds and facilities within the district’s 50-square-mile service area, including parks, trails, parking lots and athletic fields. Smoking is already prohibited inside THPRD buildings.
By a 5-0 vote, the THPRD Board of Directors approved the rule change at their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday night, Dec. 9. It was the second reading of an ordinance that would establish the ban. The first reading happened at the board’s Nov. 4 meeting.
The idea of a totally smoke-free THPRD was first formally proposed to the board in September by the district’s Parks Advisory Committee, which had done extensive research on the issue. Park District staff subsequently conducted public meetings, an online survey and other communications inviting comments from residents. Opposition was minimal.
“This rule change encourages healthy lifestyle choices for our residents, which is consistent with our mission,” said Doug Menke, THPRD general manager. “Other benefits include cleaner air, less litter, and reduced fire risk.”
According to the Washington County Public Health Division, THPRD is the latest in an increasingly long line of public agencies that have adopted a smoke-free or tobacco-free policy. Local and in-state examples include the City of Beaverton, Beaverton School District, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Bend, Roseburg, Sherwood and many others.
“THPRD’s smoke-free policy demonstrates a commitment to children, park users, and employees to improve the health of the community,” said Carla Bennett, tobacco prevention and education program coordinator for the county. “It is people-friendly, eco-friendly and animal-friendly.”
About THPRD
Formed in 1955, THPRD is the largest special park district in Oregon, spanning about 50 square miles and serving 230,000 residents in the greater Beaverton area. The district provides year-round recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Offerings include thousands of widely diverse classes, 90 park sites with active recreational amenities, 60 miles of trails, eight swim centers, six recreation centers, and 1,400 acres of natural areas. For more information, visit www.thprd.org or call 503/645-6433.
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Contact:
Bob Wayt
Director – Communications
503/614-1218 (direct)
503/686-5134 (cell)
Date: December 10, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Click here for official release (PDF).