Youth-Led Effort Makes Lovelock Park Smoke-Free

A group of determined local students has helped make Lovelock a little cleaner and a lot healthier. 

At the May 6 City Council meeting, members of the Mustang Youth Club stood before the council to advocate for a smoke-free policy at the Lovelock Strip Park. Representing the club, student Lily Margaret delivered a powerful presentation highlighting the dangers of secondhand smoke, especially to children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues. She also emphasized the environmental impacts of cigarette litter and called for the city to lead by example in creating safe, healthy spaces for the public. 

The students’ message was clear: “Parks are for babies, exercise, and play. Smoking doesn’t belong there.” 

The council responded with resounding support. Mayor Wilcox, Councilwoman Jordan McKinney, and Councilwoman Bonnie Skoglie voted in favor of drafting and passing an ordinance to make the park officially smoke-free. 

Following the meeting, the Mustangs shared their appreciation: 

“We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Wilcox, Councilwoman McKinney, and Councilwoman Skoglie for voting to pass the ordinance that will make the Lovelock Strip Park a smoke-free playground!” the group said in a statement. 

“Thank you for listening to our presentation and recognizing the importance of protecting our community’s children and families. This is a big win for public health and a step toward creating a cleaner, safer environment for everyone to enjoy. 

We are so proud to see our local leaders take action and support positive change—thank you for making this possible.” 

The ordinance sets Lovelock among a growing number of communities nationwide that are taking steps to make public parks healthier, family-friendly places. For the Mustang Youth Club, it’s a victory earned through civic engagement and teamwork. 

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