THPRD considers smoking ban; public meetings scheduled

The Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District has scheduled two public meetings to discuss a proposed ban on smoking at district-owned and maintained properties, including athletic fields, parks and trails.

• Thursday, Oct. 3 (6 p.m.): the first meeting will take place in Room 3 of the Cedar Hills Recreation Center (11640 SW Park Way, Portland).
• Tuesday, Oct. 8 (6 p.m.): the second meeting will be in Room 101 of the Conestoga Recreation & Aquatic Center (9985 SW 125th Avenue, Beaverton).
• If you are unable to attend, but would like to weigh-in with your opinion on the proposed ban, take our short survey.

The meetings were scheduled following a Parks Advisory Committee (PAC) presentation to the THPRD Board of Directors on Sept. 9 recommending that the district adopt a no-smoking policy. The PAC – one of several THPRD advisory committees composed of community volunteers who counsel the board on key issues – did extensive research before making their recommendation.

Park District staff support the proposal as a healthy lifestyle choice for residents. Smoking is already prohibited in THPRD buildings. In addition, many public agencies across Oregon, the Pacific Northwest and U.S. – including park and recreation districts -- follow a total no-smoking policy.

At the October public meetings, a presentation will be made and interested individuals will be invited to comment and ask questions.

THPRD will solicit additional feedback through a website survey, Facebook, Twitter and other communications tools.

If public response is favorable, the proposed ban on smoking will be brought before the board of directors again late this year. If approved by the board, the policy will be implemented starting in early 2014.

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.