City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE
CO-SPONSORSHIP OF THE NATIONAL 10-MINUTE
WALK TO THE PARK DAY EVENT WITH THE TRUST
FOR PUBLIC LAND AND MONTEFIORE EINSTEIN
MOUNT VERNON
Whereas, by letter dated September 25, 2024, the Commissioner of the Recreation Department has requested legislation authorizing the co-sponsorship of the National 10-Minute Walk to Park Day on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in collaboration with the Trust for Public Land (TPL), Montefiore Einstein Mount Vernon, and local schools; and
Whereas, the Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating parks and ensuring that everyone has access to green spaces within a 10-minute walk of their home; and
Whereas, parks and green spaces are essential for physical health, mental well-being, and fostering community connections; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon is committed to promoting the health and well-being of its residents through access to parks and green spaces; and
Whereas, on October 10, 2024, TPL will celebrate National Walk to a Park Day, encouraging individuals to take a walk to their nearest park and recognize the many benefits of green spaces; and
Whereas, the Department of Recreation, in collaboration with TPL, Montefiore Einstein Mount Vernon, and local schools, will co-sponsor this event to further engage the community in the celebration of parks and healthy living; and
Whereas, this event serves as a public initiative to highlight the importance of parks for both individual and community health, promoting the idea that all residents should live within short walking distance of a park; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact:
Section 1. Authorization to Co-Sponsor the National 10-Minute Walk to Park Day. The Department of Recreation is authorized to co-sponsor the National 10-Minute Walk to Park Day on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in collaboration with the Trust for Public Land (TPL), Montefiore Einstein Mount Vernon, and local schools.
Definitions:
• Trust for Public Land (TPL): A national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating parks and protecting land for public use, ensuring access to nature and open spaces for everyone.
• National Walk to Park Day: An annual event organized by TPL, encouraging people to walk to their nearest park and enjoy the benefits of green spaces, including physical health, mental well-being, and community connection.
• Montefiore Einstein Mount Vernon: A healthcare institution in Mount Vernon partnering with the city to promote health and well-being through events like the National Walk to Park Day.
• 10-Minute Walk to Park: As promoted by TPL, the goal is to ensure that every resident lives within a 10-minute walk of a public park.
Section 2. Event Details. The event will take place throughout the day. Participants are encouraged to walk to their nearest park and engage in various activities emphasizing the importance of green spaces. The walk will take place on sidewalks throughout the city, with times to be determined and communicated by the Department of Recreation.
Section 3. Community Engagement. The City will partner with local schools and Montefiore Einstein Mount Vernon to maximize community participation and foster awareness about the importance of parks for physical and mental well-being. The event will provide opportunities for residents of all ages to connect with their local parks.
Section 4. Funding. Funds for the promotion and organization of this event will be sourced from the Department of Recreation's existing budget. No additional allocation is required at this time.
Section 5. Impact on the Community. The National Walk to Park Day event aims to raise awareness of the importance of parks and encourage Mount Vernon residents to use public green spaces more frequently. By promoting physical activity and outdoor recreation, the event will contribute to the overall health and vitality of the community.
6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its approval by the City Council.