Youth Advisory Committee

Last year, the Cleveland Heights City Council created a “Special Curfew” ordinance that restricted minors (under the age of 18) from “hanging out” after 6 p.m. in designated commercial areas. As a member of City Council, I voted in favor of and continue to support this legislation. It has been an important and necessary tool in protecting the safety of our residents and our commercial districts.

However, I continue to look for additional tools, ideas and ways to make our city better for everyone, this includes our youth. I want to hear from the youth of Cleveland Heights. What are their concerns and ideas about “youth” issues and how the city responds to their needs?

At the Public Health and Safety Committee (of which I am the chair) meeting on Monday, January 24, 2012, I proposed an initial “rough draft” plan to create a Youth Advisory Committee. This committee’s primary purpose will be to provide advice to the City Council on issues affecting youth. In essence, this committee will give the youth a voice in our City government.

I hope to have legislation prepared prior to the end of the 2011-2012 school year. 

Here are some key points to my proposal:

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Cleveland Heights

Youth Advisory Committee

Purpose

The Youth Advisory Committee shall work to promote understanding and awareness of government among youth, encourage participation in government by youth, provide advice to the Council on issues affecting youth, promote communication between young people and adults within the community, and work on projects that better the community.[1]

Membership

•          Twenty-two members from throughout the City.
•          Appointed by council to one-year terms beginning in September.
•          Must live in Cleveland Heights and be enrolled in 6^th – 12^th             grade for the school year.
•          Open to students enrolled in public, private and home schools.

                                          Adult Membership (non-voting)

•          One member of City Staff
•          One member of Council
•          One CH-UH Library staff member
•          One CH-UH faculty/staff member

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As always, I want to hear from you. Please share your thoughts and ideas.

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[1] Youth Advisory Commission, City of Davenport, Iowa