Ivins City proclaims 2025–26 school year alcohol-free after student presentation

The Ivins City Council unanimously adopted a proclamation designating the 2025–26 school year as an alcohol-free year for youth after a presentation by student leaders from the Washington County Youth Coalition.

Anna Huntington, a senior at Crimson Cliffs High School and a youth representative with the Washington County Youth Coalition, asked the council to renew the proclamation and described the coalition's goals to set clear expectations against underage drinking. "Underage drinking is a major public health problem that negatively impacts brain development," Huntington said. She asked the community and the council to support prevention efforts and family engagement.

Huntington also asked the council to oppose changes to Utah's alcohol proximity laws, which require a minimum distance between places that sell alcohol and locations where youth congregate, such as parks and schools. She told the council there have been proposals to weaken the law and said, "We stand strongly in support of keeping these proximity laws in place." She urged the city to support continued protections in the upcoming Utah Legislature session beginning January 2026.

Mayor Hart and council members thanked the student leaders for their work. Council moved and multiple members seconded approval of the proclamation; the council voted unanimously in favor.

The proclamation states local support for countywide education and prevention work led by Reach for Hope and Southwest Prevention and invites local organizations and residents to sponsor activities that promote family bonding and reduce underage drinking.

The council did not attach any additional ordinance or enforcement change to the proclamation; it is a formal expression of support and encouragement for county prevention work and local outreach.