Residents of Berkeley, Calif., became the first city in the United States to approve a tax on soda and other sugary drinks during the Nov. 4 election. The 1-cent-an-ounce tax will apply to sports drinks, sweetened ice tea and other sugary beverages starting Jan. 1, 2015.
Advocates for the tax hope it encourages people to drink less sugar-laden beverages, which have been linked to higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity – particularly in children.
The Springwater District wants to explore the feasibility of a similar tax to help pay for services and facilities provided through the proposed district.
Just as Berkley's goal is to improve the health of residents, The Springwater District would like to see similar results in East Multnomah County, where it aims to protect parks and green spaces, where residents can have safe and active places to exercise, play and recreate.
Reducing stress, plus providing and increasing access to the outdoors, also are important parts of a healthy lifestyle.
For more on Berkeley’s tax, check out the links and document below.
Nation's first soda tax is passed
America's First Sugary Drink Tax Passes, But Leaves Loopholes