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York Council OKs plan to create youth council, aims to open applications in October 2025
Summary
The council approved a measure to create a youth council to give young residents a formal role in advising city government, with supporters outlining an application timeline and outreach to local schools.
The York City Council voted Sept. 2 to approve the formation of a youth council intended to give residents aged roughly high‑school age a formal advisory role to the city. Council members described the initiative as a way to foster civic engagement, leadership development and better incorporate young residents' perspectives into local decision‑making.
The council member who introduced the measure said the youth council would "open up ourselves to being educated by [youth] on their needs, their perspectives, and their vision for a stronger and more inclusive community." The introducer said outreach has already begun with the School District of the City of York, Logos Academy and Crispus Attucks Youth Field Charter School, and that officials expect to open the application period in October 2025 with the inaugural youth council launching in September 2026.
Council members including a former teacher and civic volunteers voiced support during council debate, calling the council "transformational" for youth and for the city. Councilwoman Janisco and Councilman McInnis (comments recorded during the meeting) both expressed enthusiasm based on experience with students and AmeriCorps‑style youth leadership programs.
Public commenters also supported the measure. Marie Roleda, who identified herself as a longtime Girl Scout leader, recalled instances where student input materially improved city decisions. Aaron Anderson, chief executive officer of Logos Academy, said his organization "100% supports" the idea and offered assistance with outreach and student participation.
Final passage of bill 22 was moved, seconded and approved by roll call. The ordinance will authorize staff to develop application materials and an implementation timeline with outreach to the schools and other youth organizations named in council comments.
Ending
Council members asked administration to return with specifics on application criteria, membership size, meeting cadence and staff support before the application opens. The council signaled strong bipartisan support but did not finalize those implementation details at the Sept. 2 meeting.
