Somerset Youth Council pitches spring market and 'silent' pickleball social

The Somerset Youth Town Council presented plans for a spring market and a "silent" pickleball social at the town council work session.

"We want to bring together any youth...so they can present their arts and crafts," said Sarah, the youth mayor, outlining a market tentatively scheduled for March or April and intended for a weekend morning into the early afternoon. The council heard the group would advertise starting in January so students have time to prepare work to sell.

The youth also proposed a pickleball social in April or May, a morning play session followed by lunch. The presenters said the event could be inexpensive to stage using town tables and borrowed nets; they estimated roughly $600 for materials if the town needed to purchase beginner equipment to avoid opening restricted facilities.

Council members generally welcomed the ideas and offered several practical suggestions. Members urged the youth to consult organizers of a prior entrepreneurs fair and the tennis committee, and to research "quiet" pickleball balls to reduce noise. Councilors also suggested outreach — door-to-door invitations and a note in the Town Journal — to boost participation and minimize surprises among neighbors.

No formal vote or approval took place. Council members told the youth to return with a formal, detailed proposal and a budget at a future full council meeting so staff can review costs and assist with publicity.

The work session moved on after guidance was given; the council did not take action on either event at this meeting.