In a spirited gathering at the Iron County Commission meeting on August 11, 2025, a group of passionate youth advocates from Iron County Teens Against Drugs presented a compelling case for enhancing smoke and vape-free policies at the Iron County Fairgrounds. The meeting, held in the heart of Iron County, showcased the determination of local teens to combat substance misuse and promote healthier environments for their peers.

The coalition, represented by members Camry Longhurst, Lexi Zavoico, Canon Sullivan, and Sam Murray, shared alarming statistics from a recent environmental scan conducted at the fairgrounds. They revealed that a significant number of youth in Iron County are exposed to tobacco products in public spaces, with 25% of local youth having vaped at some point in their lives. This exposure, they argued, normalizes substance use in public areas, which could lead to increased addiction rates among young people.

The teens proposed several key changes to the current outdoor smoking policy. They called for clearer and more conspicuous no smoking signage throughout the fairgrounds and other outdoor areas, an increase in the legal smoking distance from buildings from 25 to 50 feet, and a more detailed definition of smoking equipment to include items like vapes and e-cigarettes. Additionally, they sought to explicitly designate smoking and non-smoking areas within the fairgrounds and other public spaces.

To support their initiative, the coalition offered to provide the necessary no smoking signs and to establish designated smoking areas equipped with trash cans and ashtrays. Their proposal aims not only to reduce secondhand smoke exposure but also to mitigate fire risks and littering during events.

As the meeting progressed, the youth advocates emphasized the importance of community support in their mission to foster a healthier environment for all residents. Their passionate plea resonated with the commission, highlighting the critical role that local policies play in shaping the health and well-being of future generations.

The discussions at the Iron County Commission meeting reflect a growing awareness of the need for proactive measures against substance misuse, particularly among youth. As the commission considers the proposed changes, the voices of these young advocates serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that community engagement can have on public health policies.