Committee confirms youth commission representatives for new term; staff and supervisors praise program leadership

The committee recommended confirmation of candidates selected by the Milwaukee County Youth Commission to represent Districts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 13 and 18 under Resolution 22662 and Section 106 of the Milwaukee County Code of General Ordinances.

The nut graf: Committee members praised the youth commission's recent activities — including an April Day of Advocacy — and acknowledged a planned administrative transition in adult staff support. The confirmation vote passed 5-0.

Director Nikki Todd, speaking in her former role coordinating the youth commission, told the committee the commission will begin a new term cycle on Sept. 1, 2025, and highlighted accomplishments including the April 9 Day of Advocacy and three policy priority areas: youth homelessness, youth mental health and wellness, and youth civic engagement.

Todd said the commission's co-chairs, Cockfield and Taylor, introduced the county executive at the state-of-the-county speech and that recruitment and term timing have been revised to begin Sept. 1 and end Aug. 31. She also introduced new adult advisers (Julie Balestrieri and Bess Earl) who will co-lead the commission going forward.

Supervisors thanked Todd for her work. Supervisor Vincent said the commission's member vetting process is rigorous and encouraged supervisors to engage with their assigned youth commissioners. Supervisor Coggs Jones offered to host the commissioner representing District 13 in district activities.

On the motion by Supervisor Taylor (District 5) to recommend adoption of the item, Supervisors O'Connor, Taylor, Shea, Coggs Jones and Chairwoman Nicholson voted aye. The motion carried 5-0.

Ending: The committee confirmed the slate of youth commissioners and flagged the new recruitment calendar and staff transitions for the record; no budgetary changes were proposed in committee.