Every day, my family and I walk outside our door in Houston only to be engulfed in the heavy, overpowering smell of BBQ smoke coming from Terry Black's BBQ's smoke stacks, situated a mere 200 feet from our home. While BBQ may carry nostalgic and flavor-filled memories for some, the reality is that the smoke it produces is not just a sensory annoyance; it is a serious health concern for my family, my neighbors, and all of our children who play in this very neighborhood.

Scientific research has well documented that BBQ smoke contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and fine particulate matter, both of which are known carcinogens. These harmful compounds can travel miles, putting even the nearby school, Love Elementary —which is only half a mile away—at risk. It’s not just our personal idea or distaste; it's a scientifically backed concern for our community's health and safety, confirmed by organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency and various public health studies.

The installation of smoke scrubbers on smoke stacks is not just an ideal solution; it's a necessary one. Smoke scrubbers are designed to filter out harmful particulates and emissions, mitigating their release into the environment and drastically reducing the health risks associated with exposure. The technology is available and effective, and numerous BBQ establishments and manufacturing facilities across the country have already implemented such systems successfully. Terry Blacks BBQ implemented these systems on their Austin, Texas restaurant. I have asked them to install them here in Houston, and they have repeatedly told me that they will not and that they have no plans to anytime soon. 

This fight is not just for my family and neighbors, but for every Houstonian who calls this city home and deserves to breathe clean air. By mandating that Terry Black’s BBQ installs these advanced scrubbers, we take a step towards ensuring a healthier environment for future generations, protecting our community from pollution-driven illnesses, and setting a precedent for responsible business practices.

I urge you to consider the health implications, the scientific evidence, and the available technologies to make a difference in our community. Your signature can help bring about this essential change. Join us in demanding that Terry Black’s BBQ installs smoke scrubbers on their smoke stacks. Sign the petition now to show your support for a safer, healthier Houston.