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Council finalizes framework for City of Lynnwood Youth Council; application launch expected soon
Summary
Council members reported the youth council task group completed a mission statement, purposes and membership framework for a City of Lynnwood Youth Council and will finish the application and outreach steps in the coming weeks.
Council members provided a detailed update March 3 on the newly formed City of Lynnwood Youth Council task group and said a final application and outreach plan are nearly complete.
Councilmember Escamilla, who is leading the effort, told the council the task group—made up of city staff, school‑district representatives, nonprofit leaders and youth—had drafted a mission (“to empower young leaders with the knowledge, tools and community to serve their peers and city”) and five proposed purposes: representation and advocacy, leadership and growth, community engagement, empowerment and agency. The group decided the council’s advisory body will be called the City of Lynnwood Youth Council.
The task group recommended a membership of 15–20 youth, focused on high‑school‑age students (age range 15–20) with an at‑large or senior option for graduating seniors who may go to college. The group proposed two‑year terms but will allow an opt‑in second year for seniors. Organizers also decided not to require an essay or a minimum GPA for applicants; the application will include other ways for candidates to demonstrate interest and fit.
Stakeholders who participated in the task group and were named during the presentation included: Wally Webster (Access Project), Olivia Edwards (Project Girl), Thomas Gerard (Edmonds School District), Ruth Cassidy (Boys & Girls Club), Dr. Sally Guzman (Edmonds School District family resource advocates), Joel Faber (Parks and Recreation staff), Brandon (student volunteer) and Danielle (student volunteer). Staff executive assistant Estee Avelos also has been supporting the work.
Council members said two task‑group meetings had produced a near‑final framework and that only meeting frequency, adult involvement and the final application form remained for completion. Councilmembers reported the framework is roughly 85–90% complete and that outreach plans will include school‑district assistance for assemblies and grassroots promotion. No formal appointment or youth‑member selection was made at the March 3 meeting; staff and the task group will complete the application and launch outreach before a recruitment window opens.
