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Dade City adopts 'Tobacco‑Free Florida' parks ordinance after student SWAT presentation
Summary
On second reading the city adopted Ordinance 2025‑03 to prohibit smoking and vaping in city parks; youth members of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) and local partners addressed the commission during the public hearing.
The Dade City Commission adopted Ordinance 2025‑03, titled "Tobacco Free Florida," on its second reading, prohibiting smoking and vaping in city parks. Staff said the ordinance amends Chapter 66 of the city code to add a provision that prohibits smoking or vaping in city parks, provides definitions, enforcement provisions and penalties, and establishes codification and severability.
The ordinance originated from a collaboration among the Dade City Youth Council, the Pasco SWAT team, and Tobacco Free Pasco partnership. Youth SWAT member Nevaeh (Nevaeh Ridge) addressed the commission and thanked members for prior support: "We're almost to the point where our beautiful Dade City will adopt the ordinance for no smoking in our parks," she said.
Commissioners praised the student presenters and the community partners for their work. The commission then moved and seconded approval; the deputy city clerk called the roll and recorded four ayes. The clerk announced the vote would carry 4‑0.
Ending: The commission asked to have a photo with the youth presenters after the vote and directed staff to carry out codification and notification steps associated with ordinance adoption.
