Youth Council Asks for More No Smoking Signs at City Parks

The Cold Lake Youth Council was in front of City Council May 24th and pointed out an important oversight, lack of adequate signage, in public areas, for no smoking zones. Mayor of Cold Lake, Craig Copeland says the Youth Council often helps City Council discover ways the community can be improved from a younger perspective; May 24th delegation was no different.

It was a good catch by the youth, as usual. They see things differently. – Craig Copeland Mayor of Cold Lake

“They pointed out a lack of signage in parks areas for no smoking; specifically, the skateboard park and over at Kinisoo Beach. There’s just not enough signage,” explains Mayor Copeland. According to the Province of Alberta’s Tobacco & Smoking Reduction Act, and  City of Cold Lake’s Smoking Restrictions Bylaw, smoking in prohibited in public places; including parks.

The Youth Council acts as an advisory to City Council. Often Council will hear from the Youth Council or ask for the group’s input. It doesn’t necessarily mean the City will act on the direction of the Youth Council, but they certainly put its opinions into consideration. “They were involved with the transit, the skateboard park, and a long time ago recycling. They have some great ideas.”

The Cold Lake Youth Council is a youth-led, volunteer-based organization that acts as a voice for young people and as peer advocates on civic and social issues. The council also promotes youth activism and civic engagement. If you are interested, call FCSS at 780-594-4495 or drop by for a meeting. *City of Cold Lake.