HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/19/2024 - Public Hearing - Letter from Kevin Burcham - Ordinance - Tobacco and Vape Sales near schoolsROANOKE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Instructional Supervisor
H ea lth, Ph ysica l Education, and Dri ver Education
59 37 Cove Rd. Ro ano ke, VA 2401 9 ♦ (5 40) 56 2-39 00 x 102 55
Ke vin Bur ch am
November 7, 2024
Roanoke County Board of Supervisors
5204 Bernard Dr.
Roanoke , VA 24018
Subject: Request to Adopt an Ordinance Banning the Retail Sale ofVape and Tobacco Products
Within 1,000 Feet of Schoo ls
Dear Members of the Roanoke County Board of S up ervisors ,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the increasing accessibility of vape products to
minors in our community . I respectfully request the adoption of an ordinance that would prohibit
the retail sale ofvape products within 1,000 feet of schoo l s in Roanoke County.
The use of e -ci garettes and vape products among young people has become a significant public
health concern. Studies h ave shown that y outh are more likely to be exposed to vaping when vape
shop s are located near schools . By limiting the sale of vape 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 wi ll help foster a safer community and discourage the initiation of vaping among
youth .
I appreciate your consideration of this important matter. I am avai labl e for further discussion or to
provide additional information regarding the impact of vape products on our youth. Thank yo u for
your attention to this issue , and I hope the Board of Supervisors wi ll take action to help safeguard
the health of our children .
Sincerely,
Kevin Burcham
Roanoke County Public Schools
5937 Cove Road
Roanoke, VA 24019
kburcham@rcps.us
540-562-3900 Ext. 10255