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Council directs study to create a Los Angeles Youth Commission
Summary
Councilmember Eric Garcetti's motion to study the creation of a city youth commission passed Aug. 15, with councilmembers urging the commission be connected to other city bodies and that youth voices be included across commissions.
The City Council directed staff on Aug. 15 to study establishment of a Los Angeles Youth Commission and to return recommendations within 60 days.
Action and rationale: Councilmember Eric Garcetti introduced the motion to explore forming a Youth Commission that would give young Angelenos a formal advisory platform and a stronger voice in city policymaking. Supporters said the commission could bridge a persistent gap between young people and municipal decision-making and would complement existing youth programs.
Council debate: Supporters, including Councilmembers Joel Wachs and others, said youth ought to be represented not only on a single commission but across the city's boards and commissions. Some councilmembers suggested lowering any age thresholds to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to participate and to ensure the Youth Commission's recommendations are considered by commissions that affect youth such as Recreation & Parks and Libraries.
Outcome and next steps: The council approved the motion and asked the City Attorney and City Administrative Officer to review charter and ordinance implications, including potential ages for membership. The council requested the study include an implementation timetable and recommendations for how the Youth Commission would interact with existing commissions and neighborhood councils.
Why it matters: Councilmembers said the city needs a permanent formal mechanism to elevate youth participation in policy areas including recreation, schools, public safety and employment.
Ending: The council approved the 60-day study and tasked staff to return with a report and proposed framework for a Youth Commission.
