Hagerstown youth propose community improvements during mayoral presentations

During the recent Mayor and Council Work Session in Hagerstown, local youth took center stage, presenting their visions for the future of the city. The event showcased the ideas of several young residents, highlighting their concerns and aspirations for a better community.

One standout proposal came from Karen McCarty, who emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility. She suggested organizing a community "pick up trash day" to encourage residents to clean up their neighborhoods and prevent litter from entering local waterways. McCarty also advocated for the creation of more homeless shelters, proposing to repurpose abandoned buildings for this purpose. Her vision included providing essential resources and job placement assistance to help individuals improve their situations.

Another young participant, Alexander Vega Tarbert, focused on inclusivity and community engagement. He expressed a desire to ensure that all residents feel welcome and heard, proposing regular public meetings to discuss community needs. Tarbert also called for more entertainment options within Hagerstown to keep residents from having to travel elsewhere for leisure activities.

Parker Bill shared a similar sentiment, suggesting a fun contest to encourage trash collection in public spaces, with prizes to motivate participation. He also proposed planting more greenery in downtown areas to enhance the city’s appearance and air quality. Bill's ideas aimed to foster a sense of belonging among residents, particularly newcomers.

Mayor and Council members expressed pride in the students' presentations, noting the respect and creativity displayed by the young speakers. The meeting underscored the importance of engaging youth in civic discussions, as their fresh perspectives can lead to meaningful community improvements.

As Hagerstown looks to the future, the ideas presented by these young residents may inspire local leaders to consider new initiatives that address environmental concerns, homelessness, and community engagement, ultimately working towards a more inclusive and vibrant city for all.