HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/19/2024 - Public Hearing - Letter from Josh Whitlow - Ordinance - Tobacco and Vape Sales near schoolsHIDDEN VALLEY
5000 Titan Trail Roanoke VA 24018
Josh Whitlow
Hidden Valley High School
5000 Titan Trail
Roanoke, VA 24018
jwhitlow@rcps.us
(540) 776-7320
Thursday, October 31 , 2024
Roanoke County Board of Supervisors
5204 Bernard Dr.
Roanoke, VA 24018
HIGH SCHOOL
540.776.7320 I Fax 540.776.7322
Subject: Request to Adopt an Ordinance Banning the Retail Sale ofVape and Tobacco Products Within 1,000 Feet of
Schools
Dear Members of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors ,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the increasing accessibility ofvape products to minors in our community . I
respectfully request the adoption of an ordinance that would prohibit the retail sale of vape products within 1,000 feet of
schools in Roanoke County.
The use of e-cigarettes and vape products among young people has become a significant public health concern . Studies
have shown that youth are more likely to be exposed to vaping when vape shops are located near schools. By limiting the
sale ofvape products near educational institutions, we can help reduce the exposure and temptation for young people to
begin using these harmful products.
This proposed ordinance is in line with efforts by other municipalities across the country to protect the health and well
being of children and teenagers. Keeping vape products away from school environments will help foster a safer
community and discourage the initiation of vaping among youth.
I appreciate your consideration of this important matter. I am available for further discussion or to provide additional
information regarding the impact of vape products on our youth. Thank you for your attention to this issue, and I hope the
Board of Supervisors will take action to help safeguard the health of our children.
Sincerely,
Wh1 OW
Principal
Hidden Valley High School