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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/23/2025 Item Funding Priorities, Kenny Good evening Council Members, my name is Alcina Kenny. I am a second-year public health major at Cal Poly, a resident of San Luis Obispo, and the Social Media Chair of the Cal Poly Public Health Club. I am here today to advocate for stronger health protections in our community, specifically regarding the implementation of smoke-free housing policies. The places where people live, work, and play can have a big impact on their health. These are called social determinants of health—things like money, education, jobs, and neighborhoods. One of the most important social determinants is housing. People who live in apartment buildings or other multi-unit housing often face extra challenges to living a healthy life. Secondhand smoke is a significant concern for those in multi-unit housing, as it can travel through walls, doorways, and ventilation systems, making it nearly impossible to avoid. Research shows that up to 65% of the air in an apartment can come from neighboring units. The only effective way to mitigate these risks is to establish completely smoke-free buildings. Secondhand smoke exposure poses serious health risks to ALL individuals. It increases the likelihood of heart attacks and other diseases. The health of residents should not be dependent on the choices of others, and we must protect the rights of all of our residents to clean air. We must take proactive steps to protect our community. As a public health major, I find this issue important because it is both preventable and unjust. No one should be forced to breathe smoke simply because of where they live. It is not fair for residents to experience harm from secondhand smoke simply because they live in close proximity to others who smoke. Please prioritize the health and well-being of our community by adopting smoke-free housing policies that include within the units themselves. Expanding smoke-free protections will reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, create healthier living environments, and foster a stronger community for all residents in SLO. Thank you for your addressing this important matter. Your commitment to promoting public health will create a lasting positive impact on the well-being of everyone who lives in San Luis Obispo.