LANCASTER – During the Lancaster City Council meeting Wednesday, the Council received a plaque recognizing the City of Lancaster as a HEAL (Healthy Eating Active Living) City.
“The health of our community is extremely important,” said Mayor R. Rex Parris. “Studies show that nearly 30% of the students in Lancaster are overweight, and that overweight individuals are at a much greater risk for many health problems. Being fit and healthy helps us lead and enjoy a better quality of life.”
The HEAL campaign was launched by the League of California Cities to encourage cities to embrace policies that promote healthy lifestyles both among residents and City staff. In January 2011, the Lancaster City Council voted to support the initiative. In order to do so, the Council adopted a resolution outlining the City’s health and wellness efforts including; the Master Plan for Trails and Bikeways; the City employee wellness program; the LanCoaster BLVD Bicycle Experience; Wellness Homes; Neighborhood Impact Homes; and Community Gardens. The resolution also stated the City’s commitment to further implement policies to create healthier work, school, and neighborhood environments.
Last month, the City of Lancaster was designated as a HEAL City, making the City eligible to receive public relations and marketing resources, including the use of the HEAL Cities logo.
“With all of the health initiatives the City is already involved in, it just made sense to join with the League of California Cities to further our common goal of promoting the health of local citizens and California residents,” said Mayor Parris.
