Should smoking be prohibited in Kirkland parks?

Should tobacco be prohibited in parks, playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields and other public outdoor recreation areas?

Should tobacco be prohibited in parks, playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields and other public outdoor recreation areas? That’s what the City of Kirkland would like to know from residents, park visitors, and others.

An online survey will be available through Oct. 28 that gauges public interest in whether the city should enact legislation that would prohibit the use of smoke and smokeless tobacco in city owned and maintained parks, open space, and other public recreation areas.

To take the survey, go to www.kirklandwa.gov/tobaccosurvey.

The Kirkland Parks & Community Services Department, King County Department of Parks and Natural Resources and other King County cities are collaborating on a “Communities Putting Prevention to Work” (CPPW) grant to create neighborhoods where it’s safe to walk or bike, where schools and childcare setting are proving healthier foods and drinks, and where all King County residents can breathe smoke-free air.

More than 25 cities in 12 counties throughout Washington State have adopted policies promoting tobacco and smoke-free public outdoor areas.

Results from Kirkland’s online survey, combined with the results from a recent in-person survey conducted at several downtown city parks, will be presented to the City’s Park Board in early November.

For more information, contact Jennifer Schroder, Director, Parks & Community Services Department at 425-587-3301 or jschroder@kirklandwa.gov.