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Council endorses SOAR workforce memorandum to place youth in city jobs and internships
Summary
Council approved a memorandum of understanding to join the SOAR (workforce) program, a Department of Labor‑funded model that places eligible youth in paid work and training. The program is expected to provide temporary placements and training opportunities coordinated with the police department and other city departments.
Bastrop city staff briefed the council on SOAR, a workforce program previously run in Ouachita Parish that places young residents into paid work, training and mentoring. Staff presented a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the council to accept the program and to allow placements in city departments.
Jamie Mayo, special assistant to the mayor, summarized SOAR and its prior track record, saying the program had been funded by the Department of Labor in nearby Ouachita Parish and had enabled 15– to 18‑year‑olds to gain paid work experience. “They…pay them at least $12 an hour at least for 250 hours,” Mayo said, explaining the program model and noting the city’s ZIP code makes Bastrop eligible for program participation.
Chief Reed said the police department supports the program as a rehabilitation and workforce pathway: “I’m 100% behind it. I think it’s a good thing, so I will support it.” Council then moved to accept the MOU and approve the city’s participation; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.
Why it matters: the program provides a low‑cost, grant‑funded way to create temporary, supervised jobs and mentoring for young people, including those involved with the juvenile system. Staff said placements can be with the police department, public works, finance, or other city departments as appropriate.
Ending: Council approved the MOU and directed staff to finalize agreements and program details. Staff said expanded eligibility (ages 18–24) and additional cohorts may become available later in the year.
