Written by Dayton Mayor Ben Baker and Bellevue Mayor Charlie Cleves.
We are proud that leadership passed smoke-free ordinances in both our Northern Kentucky communities – Dayton was the first in September of last year and Bellevue passed similar legislation this past week on February 8th. We have actively taken the lead and want to encourage other cities in Northern Kentucky to join us in this concerted effort toward making our region healthier and more attractive to businesses and residents. We are proud to link arms with you in this important work.
The ordinance protects public health and welfare by prohibiting smoking in public spaces and workplaces. As a result, our neighbors and visitors to Bellevue and Dayton can breathe smoke-free air.
Research shows that Kentucky ranks only behind West Virginia as the state with the highest number of smokers among its residents. The American Lung Association gives Kentucky a failing grade based on prevention/cessation efforts, smoke-free air and level of tobacco taxes. And locally, Northern Kentucky holds a 38% tobacco use rate – inclusive of an alarming rate of e-cigarette use among our youth. We MUST do better than this, NKY!
It is our intent that passing the Smoke-free Ordinance is a step toward better health for those living and working in Dayton and Bellevue. We know that by taking this important step, we serve as a catalyst for healthier and economically vibrant communities throughout our region and beyond.
Smoke-free is good for business as experienced by several markets throughout the Commonwealth. According to the Kentucky Center for Smoke-free Policy, during the fourteen months after Lexington’s smoke-free ordinance took effect, restaurant employment increased by about 3% and bar employment remained the same. The same study showed that smoking-related illnesses in Kentucky resulted in an estimated $2.79 billion worth of lost worker productivity – every year. That means affected Kentucky businesses must pay another $5,816 per employee per year. Simply put good health is good business.
Even though “March Madness” has not yet begun, it’s time for all of us to get off the bench! Begin a conversation. Do your own research. Engage with your community’s leadership, organizations and individuals to promote a healthy, smoke-free Northern Kentucky.
Join Dayton and Bellevue as we celebrate these ordinances. We encourage you to take part. Get in the game! Come on, Northern Kentucky, we WILL do better.