As residents and visitors of Seattle and frequent users of parks we want  to express strong support for making our public parks smoke-free.

Parks everywhere are places that people come for relaxation, recreation and entertainment – places where we expect to be able to enjoy the outdoors. And for those of us who enjoy spending time in Seattle's parks, clean air and a healthy environment are of the utmost importance. 

Second-hand smoke – even in open-air environments – is a serious public health issue, and discarded cigarette butts tossed on the ground diminish the beauty of our parks, pose a risk to dogs and toddlers if ingested, and harm the environment around us.

Nearly 1,000 municipalities across the country have made their city parks smoke-free – and we urge you to include every Seattle park among them.

Thank you for your consideration.