As an advocate for healthy communities, I know how dangerous extreme heat and wildfire smoke can be. Children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions are all especially at risk. With summers getting hotter and wildfire seasons growing longer, the Portland Parks Levy is a vital investment in our city’s health, (“ Portland asks voters to stomach big property tax increase or watch parks deteriorate, ” Oct. 17).

Approving Measure 26-260 will help keep public pools and splash pads open, providing families with safe places to cool off on hot summer days. It will fund tree care and park maintenance to create shade and reduce urban heat. And by caring for natural areas by removing brush, the Portland Parks Levy helps prevent wildfires and limits smoke in the air we breathe. W

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