News and Events

Cross City works with the Tobacco Free Partnership and SWAT to Implement the Tobacco and Vape-Free Parks Ordinance
April 29, 2025

On August 12, 2024, the Town Council of Cross City officially adopted Ordinance #359, establishing all city parks as tobacco and vape-free zones. This significant step toward protecting community health was taken after a presentation by the Tobacco Free Partnership and the Dixie County Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) club, who emphasized the importance of maintaining clean, healthy spaces for families and children to enjoy.

Following the ordinance's adoption, the Tobacco Free Partnership collaborated with the Town Manager to design and produce signs to promote the new policy. With approval from the Bureau of Tobacco Free Florida, the partnership voted to fund the purchase of the signs to help implement the change.

On April 29, 2025, Dixie County SWAT Advisor Amy Jones, along with SWAT officers from Dixie County High School, formally presented the newly printed metal signs to Cross City Mayor Ryan Fulford during a special event at the high school.

Mrs. Jones shared a photo from the event on social media, proudly captioning it: “My SWAT officers worked with the Town of Cross City to make our city parks tobacco and vape free. We presented the signs to Mayor Fulford. Thank you, Mayor and the City Council.”

Mayor Fulford responded warmly, stating: “Thank y’all for the signs and all the hard work you and your SWAT team are doing!!!”

Community members also voiced their support, with comments such as: “It’s a beautiful thing to see the town making way for a better future for the next generation.”

To further celebrate this achievement, the Dixie County SWAT chapter is planning a Tobacco Free and Vape Free Parks Celebration in June. The event aims to raise awareness of the new ordinance and express appreciation to the Town Council by posting the new signs at all park entrances. The celebration will be promoted at both Town Hall and the Dixie County Courthouse.

Everyone is encouraged to attend and show support for creating a healthier, smoke-free environment for our community.