In a packed Calistoga City Council meeting on May 21, 2024, community members passionately advocated for the continued funding of the Calistoga Teen Center and Boys and Girls Club, emphasizing their vital role in supporting local youth. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as parents, students, and community leaders voiced their concerns over recent decisions to cut funding for these essential programs.

Henry Ames, a freshman at Calistoga High, spoke on behalf of his peers, highlighting the Teen Center as a safe haven that fosters academic and social development. "This funding isn't just a financial decision; it's an investment in our community's future," he stated, urging the council to reconsider its stance. His sentiments were echoed by other students who shared personal stories of how the Teen Center provided support during challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community leaders also weighed in, with Marianna Hawkins, a co-founder of the Boys and Girls Club, calling for collaboration and partnership. "We need to work together and figure out a way," she urged, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for the town's youth. Chris Birdwell, the current board president of the Boys and Girls Clubs, reinforced this message, noting that the organization has consistently delivered valuable services without exceeding its budget over the past two decades.

The discussions revealed a stark contrast between the funding allocated to youth programs and other city projects, such as a $750,000 budget for a full-time staff position at the fairgrounds. Many attendees questioned the council's priorities, arguing that investing in youth should take precedence over tourism-related expenditures. "This is community," said Wyatt Farris, a local resident, as he pointed out the overwhelming turnout of supporters at the meeting.

As the evening progressed, the council members were urged to reconsider their previous decision to defund the Teen Center and Boys and Girls Club. The community's passionate pleas underscored a collective belief that supporting local youth is not merely a budgetary issue but a fundamental commitment to the town's future. The meeting concluded with a call for unity and action, leaving the council with the weight of community expectations as they prepare to revisit the funding decision.