Bonney Lake Nixes Smoking in Public Parks

Park goers will have to put out their cigarettes prior to stepping onto Bonney Lake park properties, thanks to a new policy prohibiting tobacco in city parks.

According to a press release issued Wednesday, the policy was developed by the Bonney Lake Park Board and approved by Mayor Neil Johnson, and effective on Jan. 23.

The City has determined that it is detrimental to the health of children and adults engaging in and watching outdoor recreational activities at City parks. “Improving the quality of life starts with a tobacco free environment. Hopefully this policy will allow all families to enjoy the park” said Johnson.

This new policy is part of a larger effort undertaken by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. A report prepared by the Health Department indicates the potential to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke for as many as 25,000 people.

“Tobacco-free parks in Bonney Lake will help to ensure that parks patrons can enjoy the benefits of physical activity and play without risking exposure to second hand smoke and tobacco litter. With this policy, Bonney Lake joins ranks of more than 700 municipalities in the United States that have made their parks smoke or tobacco-free in order to protect the health of their communities,” said Anthony L-T Chen, Director of Health of the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.

Tell Us: Do you agree with this policy? Or do you think the city is overstepping its authority?