The voice of Jackson’s youth is being heard in Jackson City Hall. On Wednesday, March 3, the Jackson Youth Council will held its first virtual public meeting. The council is comprised of nine Jackson high school students appointed by the City of Jackson Human Relations Commission.
The Youth Council is tasked with making recommendations to the Jackson City Council concerning the needs of children, families, and young adults in Jackson. Members will also work on initiatives that aim to improve the quality of life for young residents and families in the community. The following is a list of the council’s first members:
- Victoria Uchendu
- Chloe Chaparro
- Olivia Northrup
- Kelli Higgins
- Hayden Beatty
- Brian Huynh
- Madison Connor
- Maya Saxton
- Blair Arkles
Olivia Northrup, a Jackson High School junior, says she is looking forward to being involved in the choices made in Jackson. “People under 18 years old cannot vote in elections, but the decisions made by our government impacts us just like everyone else. It’s great the Youth Council allows us to get involved in the decision making process,” Northrup said.
Jackson High School sophomore Brian Huynh hopes the council can make a positive impact in the City. “I am looking forward to bringing more young people to the table so we can make positive changes in Jackson,” Huynh said.
The new council was officially created last fall by the Jackson City Council. Mayor Derek Dobies spearheaded efforts to create the Youth Council and is excited to see it begin. “It’s important we listen to the voices of our young residents and look for ways to get them involved. These students can be the future leaders of our City, so this is an important first step in getting them engaged with government,” Mayor Dobies said.
The Youth Council is facilitated by City’s Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Meeting information is available on cityofjackson.org/youthcouncil.