Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Washington City Youth Council

On February 13, I had the opportunity to join a great group of young people from our community as they visited the legislature, toured the state capital and met with Governor Herbert. This group is the Washington City Youth Council.

The Washington City Youth Council is in its second year of existence and has already become an example throughout the state. It has been the desire of our City Council to create a Youth Council for some time and with great leadership of some of community "go-getters" we were able to do that, this last year. Under the guidance of Volunteer Advisor: Carmen Snow and Assistant Advisor: Wendi Bulkley and the oversight of Councilmen Hudson and Turek, our council has attracted some wonderful young leaders, provided a great curriculum, and given them many opportunities to serve and engage within our community. Our Youth Council draws from Pineview, Desert Hills, and Millcreek High Schools. These young people are bright, ambitious and eager to make a difference in their community and world.

During their one-year term on the council they learn about positions in city and state government, Roberts Rules of Order, and how to effectively engage in community dialogue and process. They then put this all to good use by getting involved in our city by assisting with Cotton Days and other service projects. They have sold our famous "shadow dogs" and they visit our council meetings often. As you watch these young people you are impressed with their demeanor, their knowledge and how they represent our great city. Last year in a conference of at Utah State the Washington City Youth Council took second place as the Best Youth Council in the state of Utah; quite an achievement for the first year.

We are proud of the youth of this community. This Youth Council is indicative of the responsible, caring, young citizens we have here. We hope many of our young people will consider serving on this council. The Youth council is taking applications for next year, until February 29.

Thanks Youth Council for all of your great work! We know our future is in good hands.