Call For Input On Smoke Free Workplaces

11/30/2006

Dear Friends,


I am letting you know about the need for community input on the Smoke-Free Workplace ordinance being discussed by the Olmsted County Board.


The Olmsted County Public Health Community Advisory Committee, of which I am a member, has presented research, information, and data gained through a recent public survey to the County Board and encouraged their adoption of a smoke free workplace ordinance to protect all workers from the serious effects of second-hand smoke. Several public presentations of the research and survey results have been held to inform the community. The research is compelling and the impact of this change on improved public health and health care costs has been proven in numerous communities.


Now the County Board is interested in hearing from the community about the issue.


I am hopeful that there might be some community minded individuals (students, seniors, parents....) who would be willing to speak briefly about their personal experiences, their interest in smoke-free businesses, or simply state their support for the ordinance at an upcoming opportunity. The first opportunity to speak is prior to the County Board meeting tomorrow, November 28th, at 3:00 at the Govt. Center. Additional opportunities will be Dec. 7th at 3 p.m.; December 19th at 9 a.m., Jan. 2nd at 9:00 a.m. and Jan. 23rd at 3 and 7 p.m.- it would be great to have a couple at each!


If you would be interested or willing support the smoke free ordinance, please contact Isis Stark of the American Cancer Society at isis.stark@cancer.org or 651-255-8156 as she is going to coordinate the effort and is a great resource for you in case you have questions.


Thanks for being interested and involved in our community!


Kim Norton