City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council review the recommendation by the Parks and
Recreation Commission and staff regarding the establishment of a Youth Advisory
Commission (YAC), discuss the issue and provide direction to staff.
BACKGROUND:
On October 18, 2004 City Council directed staff to place the establishment of a
Youth Council or Commission for consideration at a future Council meeting. The
intended purpose of the YAC would be to advise the City Council and Commission
regarding issues that affect the youth of Culver City. Staff scheduled the YAC item
for the January 10, 2005 City Council meeting. Prior to the January 10, 2005
Council meeting, the Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) took action to
request that the City Council refer the YAC item back to the Commission for a
recommendation before it was considered by City Council. Attachment 1 provides a
copy of the minutes from the January 4, 2005 Commission meeting.
At the January 10, 2005 City Council meeting, Council moved to refer the YAC issue
back to the Commission for review and recommendation. Attachment 2 provides a
copy of the minutes of the January 10, 2005 City Council meeting.
DISCUSSION:
Meeting Date: 06/26/06 Item Number: A-1
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Establishing a Youth Advisory Commission.
Contact Person/Dept.: Bill La Pointe Phone Number: (310) 253-6682
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [X] No []
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification:
Parks and Recreation Commission 6/20/06; Public Notification List 6/21/06.
Department Approval:
William LaPointe (06/19/2006)
CAO Approval: Jerry B. Fulwood
(06/21/2006)
City Controller Approval:
Marlee Chang (06/21/2006)City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
At the February 1, 2005 Commission meeting, the Commission appointed a
Subcommittee of Commissioners James and Redholtz (Subcommittee) to “attend
the Teen Advisory Council meeting and report back to the Commission.”
Attachment 3 provides a copy of the minutes of the Commission meeting. The
Subcommittee met with the Teen Advisory Council and reported back to the
Commission at the March 1, 2005 Commission meeting. Commissioner Redholtz
gave a summary report regarding the Subcommittee’s meeting with the Teen
Advisory Council and stated how impressed she was the quality of the student
membership. Attachment 4 provides a copy of the minutes of the meeting. The item
was not scheduled for Commission action.
The Commission agendized the TAC issue for Commission consideration at the May
3 2005 Commission meeting. Attachment 5 provides a copy of the staff’s report.
The Commission moved to direct staff to work with the Subcommittee to develop a
teen survey for distribution to local schools and report back to the Commission.
Attachment 6 provides a copy of the minutes of the meeting.
The Subcommittee met with staff on July 7, 2005 to discuss the TAC issue and
continued discussions via emails during the months of August through October
2005. The Subcommittee contacted the Culver City Unified School District staff to
assess the interest that the young people would have in forming an Advisory
Council. In addition, Subcommittee members conducted their own individual
research with the students.
At the November 16, 2005 Commission meeting the Subcommittee presented
research information stating many young people seem to be mostly concerned with
issues related to school. The Subcommittee felt that young people may not know
much about how the City works and asked the Commission to consider
recommending a “Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day” event in which students and
young people could discover what the various governmental bodies (County, City,
School District, etc.) do and what part they, as students, could play in governmental
affairs. Attachment 7 provides a copy of staff’s report to the Commission.
Commissioners discussed the TAC issue and moved the following:
1. Not to recommend the establishment of a YAC;
2. Explore using the Teen Advisory Council (now called Teen Advisory Group) of
the City as well as representatives of the middle and high school leadership
classes for youth input;
3. Explore with Teens a “A Round Table of Civic Affairs Day”;
4. Explore the development of a web database email blast information request; and
5. Explore other ideas as they come up.City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
Attachment 8 provides a copy of the minutes of the November 16, 2005 meeting.
Attachment 9 provides a proposed budget for a “Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day.”
Recreation staff has been in contact with both the Information Technology
Department and Teen Center members regarding the development of a Teen
website. At that time it was decided that that project would not go forward.
On June 13, 2006 an email survey on the topic of Youth Advisory
Commission/Committees was sent to 325 members of the California League of
Cities. Attachment 10 provides the results of that survey. Several cities included
supplemental information in their responses to the email survey (Attachment 11).
Although the City of Los Angeles did not respond to the email survey, Attachment 12
provides information from the Los Angeles Youth Council web page. Attachment 13
provides a copy of the article titled, “L.A. Youth Council Gives Teens a Taste of
Politics,” that was published in the April 11, 2006 issue of the Los Angeles Times
newspaper.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The costs associated with a Teen Advisory Commission would depend on the
decision of the City Council. Below are several financial scenarios based upon
assumptions of organizational structures:
A. If the Council established a Youth Commission of 5 members with a monthly
stipend of $50, the cost would be $3,000 per year. Staff costs to process
agendas, take minutes and attend staff meetings are estimated to be
approximately $26,024, for a total cost of $29,024.
B. If the Council established a Youth Commission of 12 members with a monthly
stipend of $50, the cost would be $7,200. Staff costs to process agendas, take
minutes and attend staff meetings are estimated to be approximately $26,024, for
a total cost of $33,224.
C. If the status quo were to be maintained with the existing Teen Advisory Group at
the Teen Center, meeting informally every other week and Teen Center staff
costs having already been budgeted, then there would be no additional costs.
D. If the Council were to approve the concept of a “Round Tables of Civic Affairs
Day” event the proposed costs for a one day event would be approximately
$2,623. Attachment 9 provides a proposed budget for the event.City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
E. Developing a web database email blast information request option has not been
fully detailed in regards to expenditures and therefore costs for this request have
not been identified at this time. It can be projected that there would be a cost for
staff to establish the site and then on-going maintenance costs of the site.
Staff costs for a formal Commission were based upon a contract secretary at
$28/hour with an average three hour meeting minimum. If existing staff were
assigned to conduct the research and report writing for a new Youth Commission, it
would require a reduction in staff time allotted to other programs.
Funding for a Youth Advisory Commission or for a “Round Tables of Civic Affairs
Day” is not budgeted for FY 2005-06 or for FY 2006-07. A reduction in other
services currently provided may also need to be implemented if a more formal
Commission were to be constituted.
With respect to funding, the City Council may wish to consider the following
scenarios:
(1) Approve use of $20,000 in appropriated reserves from the City Council
Discretionary Fund and $8,800 in appropriated reserves in Fiscal Year
2005/2006 and authorize carrying-over these funds into Fiscal Year 2006/2007;
OR
(2) Approve use of $20,000 in appropriated reserves from the City Council
Discretionary Fund and $10,000 in appropriated reserves in Fiscal Year
2006/2007 (subject to approval of the Fiscal Year 2006/2007 budget by the City
Council); OR
(3) Approve use of $30,000 in appropriated reserves in Fiscal Year 2006/2007
(subject to approval of the Fiscal Year 2006/2007 budget by the City Council).
Section 1100 of the new City Charter states:
“The City Council may, by ordinance, establish and abolish such commissions and
boards as it may determine, from time to time, to be necessary for the effective and
efficient governance of the City, to encourage citizen participation in local
government and maintain positive human relations in the community.”
Should the Council determine to establish a Youth Advisory Commission, an
ordinance would be prepared and presented to the City Council for consideration on
July 24, 2006.
ATTACHMENTS:City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
1. January 4, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
2. January 10, 2005 City Council Meeting Minutes
3. February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
4. March 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
5. May 3, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report
6. May 3, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
7. November 16, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report
8. November 16, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes
9. Proposed Budget for a “Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day”
10.Results of Youth Advisory Committee/Commission Email Survey
11.Supplemental information provided by various cities regarding their youth
advisory groups.
12.Los Angeles Youth Council web page.
13.Copy of the article titled, “L.A. Youth Council Gives Teens a Taste of Politics,”
as published in the April 11, 2006 issue of the Los Angeles Times newspaper.
MOTION:
That the City Council:
1. Conceptually approve the establishment of a five (5) member Youth
Commission; OR
2. Conceptually approve the establishment of a twelve (12) member Youth
Commission; OR
3. Approve providing a one day “Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day”; OR
4. Take no action and continue with the current Teen Advisory Group program;
AND
5. Consistent with whatever action the Council takes, allocate funding from the
source desired by the City Council; OR
6. Provide staff with further direction.
MEETING DATE: 6/26106
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of Establishing a Youth Advisory Commission
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1. January 4, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 1
2. January 10, 2005 City Council Meeting Minutes 2
3. February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 3
4. March 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 4
5. May 3, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report 5-7
6. May 3, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 8-9
7, November 16, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report 10-14
8. November 16, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes 15-17
9. Proposed Budget for a "Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day" 18
10. Results of Youth Advisory Committee/Commission Email Survey 19-20
11. Supplemental information provided by various cities regarding their
youth advisory groups 21-40
12. Los Angeles Youth Council web page 41
13. Copy of, "L.A. Youth Council Gives Teens a Taste of Politics,"
as published in the April 11, 2006 issue of the Los Angeles Times newspaper 42ATTACHMENT I
Parks and Recreation Commission
January 4, 2005
Commissioner James inquired as to why the Commission is discussing an issue that is already
agendized for Council action prior to the Commission's review and recommendation.
Discussion ensued.
Mrs. Fancett provided further clarification on the City Council's direction to staff and the
Commission's involvement in the process.
Ms. Fanceil added that if the Commission desires to have this matter referred to the Commission
for their review and recommendation, the Commission may make a formal request to the City
Council for consideration at their January lo th meeting.
Following further discussion, the following action was taken_
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER DEEN, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER JAMES, TO REQUEST
THAT THE CIT'Y COUNCIL REFER THE PENDING COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REGARDING
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL/COMME1TEE TO THE PARKS
AND RECREATION COMMISSION FOR REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATION TO THE CITY
COUNCIL.
Chair Shapiro called for a vote on the Motion which passed by a 4-0 vote (Commissioner Redlioltz
was absent).
Commissioner James stated that she would like to listen to the audio tapes of the November 3ra
Commission meeting regarding this issue.
000
Item A-1.
(7:24 P-m-)
Review and Discussion of the Proposed Open Space Comprehensive Plan Zone.
Don Rogers pointed out that a conflict of interest requirement disqualifies Commissioners
Cooper, Deen, and Shapiro from participating in this evening's discussion as they reside within
the 500-feet radius of a potential open space. The one exception is Commissioner James.
Mr. Rogers added that since a quorum is needed for discussion to occur, it would be necessary to
draw lots among the disqualified members in order to create a quorum.
Through a random selection of numbers prepared by Mr. Rogers, Commissioners Cooper and
Shapiro were allowed to participate in the discussion of the Open Space Zone and Commissioner
Deen was disqualified from the discussion. Commissioner Deen indicated his desire to speak to
this issue as a member of the general public. The Chair instructed Commissioner Deen to fill out
a speaker's card.
Mr. Rogers then deferred to Thomas Gorham, Senior Planner, to give the staff report.
Mr. Gorham gave an overview of the proposed draft amendment to the City's Zoning Ordinance
establishing an Open Space Zone and rules and regulations of the Open Space Zone and its impact
on existing parks and new park development:
o The purpose of the OS Zone is to ensure the City can regulate where, when and how new
parks are developed within an appropriate level of discretion and consideration. It is
intended to provide consistency with and implement policies related to the locations
which are designated open space on the General Plan Land Use Element Map and in the
General Plan text.
3ATTACHMENT 2
January 10, 2005
Item A-3
Receive and File Updated Accomplishments to the Adopted Community
Cultural Plan and Consider Updates to Cultural Affairs Policies.
Christine Byers, Public Art Coordinator, gave the staff report.
Following discussion, the following motion was made:
if _ use P _ P • _ _ _ _ _ • k In 11 • 141 Vid: 7 A 10
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
L RECEIVE AND FILE THE UPDATED COMMUNITY CULTURAL PLAN; AND
1 ADOPT THE ADDITIONAL TWENTY POLICIES (ATTACHMENT 3)
AS ADOPTED BY
THE CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION.
o0o
Item A-5
Consideration of a Request to Refer the Pending Council Agenda Item
Regarding the Establishment of a. Youth Advisory Council to the Parks
- ) and Recreation Commission for Review, and Recommendation.
2-
Don Rogers, Director of Park, Recreation and Community Services, gave
the staff report.
The City Council inquired into costs associated with the Youth
Advisory Council; and what would happen to the present Teen Council.
The City Council requested that a proposed survey regarding
establishing a Youth Advisory Council be distributed to schools.
Following discussion, the.following motion was made:
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER GROSS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SILBIGER AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL REFER THIS ITEM BACK TO
THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FOR THEIR REVIEW AND
RECOMMENDATION.
2Parks and Recreation Commission
ATTACHMENT 3
February 1, 2005
Discussion Regarding the Establishment of a Teen Advisory
Council/Commission/Committee.
Marty Nicholson, Recreation Manager, provided a summary report on the Teen Advisory
Council/Commission issue, which the City Council directed back to the Commission for review
and a recommendation.
There was lengthy discussion regarding the following:
• Identifying the purpose of a Youth Commission
• Determining the best group structure to meet the purpose
• 0 tions for or au ation • WV R - • N I II
Different ways to acquire youth input into City programs and activities
Commissioner James recommended working with the existing Teen Advisory Committee to
formulate directions.
Commissioner Deen inquired about the age group of the Teen Advisory Committee and
whether there is a process for expanding the membership age. He recommended the Teen
Advisory Committee attend the next Commission meeting to inform the Commission about
their organization's structure and objectives.
• Commissioner Redholtz concurred with Commissioner Deer., adrling the Teen Advisory
Committee could report on their progress each month at the Commission meeting.
Commissioner James suggested a meeting with the Teen Advisory Committee would be more
effective.
Don Rogers cautioned about the Brown Act requirement if Commissioners were to meet
collectively. He recommended the Commission appointing a subcommittee of two
Corn m
issioners to meet with the Teen Advisory Committee.
Commissioner James said she would be interested in sitting on the subcommittee.
Commissioner Redholtz also expressed interest
Corn rrlission.er Cooper concurred with Mr. Rogers' recommendation and took the following
action.
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER COOPER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BEEN AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, TO APPOINT A SUBCOMMITTEE OF COMMISSIONERS
JAMES AND REDHOLIZ TO ATTEND THE TEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
AND REPORT BACK TO THE COMMISSION.
°Go
Item A-8.
(9:05 p.m.)
Discussion Regarding a Plaque for the Pool Locker Room.
Marty Nicholson informed the Commission that the issue of a commemorative plaque for the Pool
Locker Room Project was raised at the design/build team meeting. The existing plaque has a list
of City Council members and contractors, and there are separate dates when the pool was
rededicated and when the pool locker room was built|1010|7Parks and Recreation Commission
ATTACHMENT 4
March 1, 2005
Commissioner Redholtz provided a brief update on the status of the Dog Park and noted
that the project is moving forward. Most recently, the City Council approved an increase
in the dog license fee that will help offset the maintenance cost to the City budget.
o0o
Item 1-2,
(8:13 p.m.)
Update on Teen Advisory Council/Committee.
Marty Nicholson invited Comnussiorter Reiho tz to comment on tHUuIver City Teen
Advisory Committee meeting she attended with Commissioner James on February 15,
2005.
Commissioner Redholtz indicated she was very impressed with the quality of the student
membership and the input they provided regarding their ideas and issues of concern.
She commented on the importance of getting the students involved in the budgetary
process so they have a better understanding of the financial aspects of their fundraising
efforts as well as providing them with a sense of ownership. The students were
instructed to come back with ideas on how they can get more teens involved in the
community.
Ms. Nicholson mentioned that one of the upcoming events involving the Teen Advisory
Committee is the Youth Services Day on April 16, 2005 and that the Committee has
identified three projects they would like to complete for the event: 1) repair ' work on the
mural at the Bike Path; 2) "Rock the Vote" table to register youth to vote; and 3) a food
drive.
Commissioner Redholtz mentioned that the Teen Advisory Committee was encouraged
to send representatives to the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
meetings to inform the community about any upcoming events in which they are
involved.
Ms. Nicholson noted that two members of the Teen Advisory Committee are also
involved in the City's Youth Shadowing program and are currently attending the City
Council meetings.
00o
Item
(8:20 p.m.)
Discussion Regarding the Addition of a Beer/Wine Garden to the Fiesta La
Ballona Events.
Marty Nicholson presented the staff report and elicited Commission input into research
and information for the Fiesta Committee to consider in determining whether to proceed
with the concept of adding a beer/wine garden to the Fiesta La Ballona events at
Veterans Park.
9eakAi CITY
ATTACHMENT 5
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: May, 2, 2005
TO: CHAIR SHAPIRO AND MEMBERS OF THE PARKS AND
RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: Marty Nicholson, Recreation Manager
. f-
• •
-
SUBJECT: Continuing Discussion Regarding the Establishment of a Teen
Advisory Committee/Councif/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss the Teen
Advisory Committee/Council/Commission issue, make a recommendation and
direct staff to forward the recommendation to City Council for consideration.
BACKGROUND:
On October 18, 2004 City Council directed staff to place the establishment of a
Youth Council or Commission for consideration at a future Council meeting. Staff•
had scheduled the Youth Council/Commission item on the January 10, 2005
meeting. Prior to the January 10, 2005 meeting, the Parks and Recreation
Commission took action to request the City Council refer the Youth
Council/Commission item back to the Parks and Recreation Commission first for
a recommendation. Attachment A provides a copy of the minutes from the
January 4, 2005 Commission meeting.
At the January 10, 2005 City Council meeting, Council took action to refer the
Youth Council/Commission issue back to the Parks and Recreation Commission
for review and recommendation. Attachment B provides a copy of the minutes of
the January 10, 2005 Council meeting.
At the February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the
Commission unanimously approved appointing a subcommittee of
Commissioners James and Redholtz to attend the Teen Advisory Committee
meeting and report back to the Commission. Attachment C provides a copy of
the minutes of the February 1, 2005 Commission meeting.
Commissioners James and Redholtz attended the Teen Advisory Committee
meeting on February 15, 2005. Attachment D provides a copy of the minutes
from the Teen Advisory Committee meeting. At the meeting Commissioners
were introduced and Commissioners James and Redholtz requested information
from the Teen Advisory Committee members present at the meeting.|1010|9770 CULVER BOULEVARD CULVER C/TY, CA 90232-0507Page 2 of 3
The Teen Advisory Committee/Council/Commission issue was acendized at the
March 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting under "Items from
Staff' as an update. At the meeting Commissioner Redholtz reported she was
impressed with the quality of the students, shared concerns regarding teen
fundraising issues and her intent to work with the Teen Advisory Committee on
future ideas. The minutes from the March meeting are included in the
Commission packet. The Teen Advisory Committee has not actively met since
that time due to spring break and school events.
DISCUSSION:
In January 2005, the City Council requested the Parks and Recreation
Commission review the issue of establishing a Youth Council or Commission and
make a recommendation to bring back to City Council for consideration.
The issues regarding the establishment of a Youth Council or Commission is
multi-faceted and extremely complex, however, in an effort to comply with the
direction of City Council in a timely fashion, staff is proposing the Commission
focus on two considerations of this highly complex issue. The first consideration
is the "need" and the second is the "cost".
Need for a Youth Council/Commission
The need for a Youth Council/Commission in other agencies has centered on
giving input into youth programs or issues. Currently the Teen Advisory
Committee and participants in youth programs have served in that capacity
through program evaluations and surveys conducted by staff.
Program development has been extremely challenging in the last few years due
budget cuts that have reduced resources to provide additional programs. The
upcoming fiscal year 05-06 is equally as challenging as staff has already had to
Provide a 3% cut to operations. Until additional funds can be identified, program
development for youth will continue to be "reticent. Therefore, without the
necessary resources to implement new programs, the need to gather additional
input from youth for programs seems pointless. Staff will continue to utilize the
Teen Advisory Committee to improve the programs currently funded.
Cost of a Youth Council/Commission
If the Parks and Recreation Commission were to recommend the establishment
of a full Youth Commission of 5 members with monthly compensation, the total
cost would be $29,024 annually. If the recommendation were to keep the Youth
Advisory Committee the same, there would be no additional cost to the City.
• FISCAL ANALYSIS:
Staff has provided the Parks and Recreation Commission with the cost estimates
for a Youth Commission based upon 5 members and 12 members below:•|1010|FILE NAME TEEN A DV/SORY COUNCIL 4 PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAYERPage 3 of3
A. If the Commission recommended establishing a Youth Commission of 5
members with a monthly stipend of $50, the cost would be $3,000. Staff costs to
process agendas, take minutes and staff meetings are estimated to be
approximately $26,024, for a total cost of $29,024.
B. If the Commission recommended establishing a Youth Commission of 12
members with a monthly stipend of $50, the cost would be $7,200. Staff costs to
process agendas, take minutes and staff meetings are estimated to be
approximately $26,024, for a total cost of $33,224.
Staff costs were based upon a contract secretary at $28/hour with an average
three hour meeting minimum. If existing staff were assigned to conduct the
research and report writing for a new Youth Commission, it would require a
reduction in time allotted to other programs.
If the Teen Advisory Committee were to continue to function as it has in the past,
there would be no additional cost to the City.
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Minutes of the January 4, 2005 Parks and Recreation 'Commission
meeting
B. Minutes of the January 10, 2005 Council meeting
C. Minutes of the February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission
meeting
D. Minutes of the February 15, 2005 Teen Advisory Committee meeting
MOTION:
That the Parks and Recreation Commission:
Discuss the Teen Advisory Committee/Council/Commission issue- make a
recommendation and direct staff to forward the recommendation to City Council
for consideration |1010|FILE NATn15: TEEN AD VISO RY COUNCIL 4 PRINTED ON RECYCLED P APERParks and Recreation Comrnission
ATTACHME
NT 6 may 3, 2005
Item C-2.
(7:39 P.m.)
Approval of Minutes for Meeting of February 1, 2005
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER COOPER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
RED HOLTZ AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, THAT THE PARKS AND
RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 1,
2005 MEETING AS AMENDED ON PAGE 9 ON THE UPDATE ON TEEN
AMTIAINI SNYmNYJIIIIMMnaMNiiiirAMI.Miame-n rimearz,
INSTRUCTED
TO COME BACK WITH SOME IDEAS 131 - A PROPOSAL ON HOW
THEY CAN GET MORE TEENS EVVOLVED IA .THE C011411/1.U17TIY, RV ORDER .
FOR THE corolissrav-
SUBCOMMITTEE TO MOVE FORWARD WITH A
RECOMMENDATION TO THE COMMISSION.
000
Item A-1
(7:40 p.m.)
Rescheduling the human relations workshop for Commissioners and staff.
Dort Rogers gave the staff report
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER REDHOLTZ, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER DEEN
AND
UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED, THAT 'THE PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION DIRECT STAFF TO MID AN APPROPRIATE DATE FOR THE HUMAN
RELATIONS TRAINING WORKSHOP FOLLOWING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE
NEW
PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR AND THE SEATING OF TWO NEW
COMMISSIONERS IN JULY.
000
Item A-2.
(7:41 p.m.)
Continuing discussion regarding the establishment of a Teen Advisory
Council/Committee.
Mar& Nicholson gave the staff report and provided a brief history regarding this issue.
Ms. Nicholson noted that the since the February 15, 2005 meeting, attendance at the
Teen Center Advisory Council meeting has dwindled to three members due to spring
break and special events, and as a result there has been no additional input from.
students members since that time.
Commissioner Redholtz indicated her understanding of the Subcommittee's intent was
to continue meeting with the students and come up with ideas to bring back to the
Commission. Without that information, she did not feel comfortable in moving forward
with a recommendation to the Commission at this time and ultimately to the Council for
consideration. She recommended this is a pacess that should not be rushed into.
4Parks and Recreation Commission May 3, 2005
If the Teen Center Advisory Council is not avpilable to meet with the Subcommittee, she
suggested meeting with the key three members and/or other interested teen leaders or
youth organizations for additional input on how youth can be involved, not only in parks
and recreation programs, but all issues involving youth city wide.
Lengthy discussion ensued among Commissioners and staff.
Commissioner James queried staff about providing a timeline to the City
Conn ell
informing them of the Commission's progress regarding this issue.
Mr. Rogers offered to send a memo to the City Council apprising them of the actions to
date, as well as an estimated time when the Commission may be forwarding a
recommendation to the Council.
Commissioner James concurred with Mr. Rogers' suggestion.
Further discussion ensued regarding staffs understanding of the Council's direction to
staff and the Commission's involvement in the process.
Ms. Nicholson noted that the Council had requested a proposed survey regarding
establishing a Youth Advisory Council be distributed to schools, and suggested that this
would be another option that would enable the Subcommittee to move forward on this
issue.
At this time, the following motion was proposed:
MOVED BY CONEVIISSIONER_ COOPER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER JAMES
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION DIRECT STAFF TO WORK WITH THE COMMISSION
SUBCOMMITTEE IN DEVELOPING A TEEN SURVEY FOR DISTRIBUTION TO
SCHOOLS AND REPORT BACK TO THE COMMISSION AS SOON AS THE
SUBCOMMITTEE IS READY.
It was recommended that the survey should be distributed to schools prior to the school
year ending in order for the Subcommittee to report back to the Commission with a
recommendation to forward to the Council in the fall.
Conim.issioner Redholtz noted that as a separate issue, additional meetings between the
Subcommittee and teen leaders should be scheduled as soon as possible.
Mr. Rogers assured the Commission that this item will be agendized each month in order
to allow Commissioners to dismiss the issue.
Mr. Rogers confirmed he would prepare a memo to the City Council regarding the status
of the Commission's efforts in this regard. Commissioner James requested that the
Subcommittee be allowed to review the memo prior to forwarding it to the Council.
o0o
Item A-s.
(8:i.o p.m.)|10 10|5City of Culver City, California
ATTACHMENT 7
Parks and Recreation Commission Report
Meeting Date: 11/16105 item Number: A-4
AGENDA ITEM: Review Subcommittee Report on the need and/or establishment
of a Youth Advisory Council and make a recommendation to City Council.
Contact Person/Dept.: Marty Nicholson,
Phone Number: (303) 253-6662;
Recreation Manager; Bill La Pointe,'
(310) 253-6682
Director of Parks, Recreation and
Cornrnuni Services
.-gren-ef
Public Hearing: Actipnitem:::{2g" Attachments: [X]
Public Notification: .
Master Notification List on 11/10/05
Dep.artmentApproyal:'
Bill La Pointe 1111012005 -
City COntifOlfer:APpro*Nr
AO .Approvef:. N/A
:
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Parks and Recreation Commission review the Subcommittee report on the
need and/or establishment of a Youth Advisory Council and make a .
recommendation to City Council. .
BACKGROUND:
On October 18, 2004 City Council directed staff to place the establishment of a
Youth Council or Commission for consideration at a future Council meeting. Staff
had scheduled the Youth Council/Commission item on the January 10, 2005
meeting. Prior to the January 10, 2005 meeting, the Parks and Recreation
Commission took action to request the City Council refer the Youth
Council/Commission item back to the Parks and Recreation Commission first for a
recommendation. Attachment A provides a copy -of the minutes from the January 4,
2005 Commission meeting.
At the January 10, 2005 City Council meeting, Council took action to refer the Youth
Council/Commission issue back to the Parks and Recreation Commission for review.
and recommendation. Attachment B provides a copy of the minutes of the January
10, 2005 Council meeting.
At the February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the
Commission unanimously approved appointing a subcommittee of Commissioners
James and Redholtz to attend the Teen Advisory Committee meeting and report
back to. the Commission. Attachment C provides a copy of the minutes of the
February 1, 2005 Commission meeting.
10City of Culver City, California
Parks and Recreation Commission Report
Commissioners James and Redholt attended the Teen Advisory Committee
meeting on February 15, 2005. Attachment ID provides a copy of the minutes from
the Teen Advisory Committee meeting. At the meeting Commissioners were
introduced and Commissioners James and Redholtz requested information from the
Teen Advisory Committee members present at the meeting.
The Teen Advisory Committee/Council/Commission issue was agenized at the
March 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting under "Items from Staff"
as an update. At the meeting Commissioner Redholt reported she was impressed
with the quality of the students, shared concerns regarding teen fundraising issues
and her intent to work with the Teen Advisory Committee on future ideas. The
minutes from the March meeting are included in the Commission packet. The Teen
Advisory Committee disbanded during the school summer break and did not address
any Commission concerns.
• On - July 5, 2005 the item was agenized as an action item in order to 'allow
Commissioners to continue to discuss the issue.
On July 7, 2005 the Subcommittee members (Commissioners Daly-Redholtz and
James) and staff (Marty Nicholson and Bill LaPointe) met and discussed this issue
to determine a strategy for formulating a recommendation to the Commission on
whether or not a Youth Advisory Council/Commission was needed.
From August-October, 2005 there were many &mails and discussions between the
subcommittee members and staff to discuss the issues surrounding this work.
Contact was also made with .a school liaison to assess interest in further involvement
with the City's youth. A survey was not done, as it appeared to be pre-mature, based
On the interest level shown with other methods of contact. Also, all surveys through
the school must be approved by the school prior to distribution.
DISCUSSION:
After much discussion between the Parks and Recreation Commission
Subcommittee (Commissioners Daly Redholtz and James) and staff regarding this
issue, the Subcommittee discussed the purpose of establishing a Youth Advisory
'Council/Commission would be to assist young people in becoming more involved
with city politics and being able to give their views and opinions about various issues
facing the community, providing an official forum for them to learn more about, and
participate in, civic affairs, and allow them to become familiar with how the City
operates.
In conversations the Subcommittee has had with young people both through the
Teen Advisory Group at the Teen Center and individually, many students have
4-4Om a-•m- a.as
S IS S'SS- U. SO .1101 U
City of Culver City, California
Parks and Recreation Commission Report
indicated that their main concerns and issues revolve around school (Le. programs,
rules, involvement), aspects of youth life that are not within the City's purview. The
involvement most students are interested in can and does take place between the
students and the School Board or through their local Parent/Teacher Associations.
the
City works. One idea for involvement the subcommittee has suggested might be to
have an event where they can learn more about the City structure and processes.
The "Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day" event could be comprised
of representatives from various governmental bodies (the County, City, School
District, etc.) in a location where the students could go from table to table meeting
staff, commissioners, etc. and learning more about what they do and what part they,
as students, could play.
The event could begin with a brief overview of each political body and the challenge
to the students to ask their toughest questions of each representative. Students
could explore personal opportunities for community service hours through
involvement with one of the governmental entities , and community service
organizations. The main costs might be advertising, snacks, and handouts. An
event like this could inspire .students to become more involved in their local
community.and as well as identify what role they can play in their local government
The issues regarding the establishment of a Youth Council or Commission are fairly
simple. The questions are, "Has there been a request for, or a need for a Youth
Advisory Council/Commission to handle youth issues, and if so, what would be the
costs?" In an effort to comply with the direction of the Commission and City Council,
the Subcommittee and staff are proposing the Commission focus on two
considerations of this issue. The first consideration is the "need" and the second is
the "cost".
Need_fora Youth Council/Commission .
The need for a Youth Council/Commission in other agencies has centered on gMiig
input into youth programs or issues. First, the City has a Teen Advisory Group for
middle school aged youth. Participants in youth programs have also served in that
capacity through program evaluations and surveys conducted by staff. Second,
there has not been as expressed need or desire brought to the community's
attention by our young people.
Cost of a Youth Council/Commission
If the Parks and Recreation Commission were to recommend the establishment of a
full Youth Council/Commission of 5 members with monthly compensation, the total
cost would be $29,024 annually. If the recommendation were to allow the current
12City of Culver City, California
Parks and Recreation Commission Report
Teen Advisory Group to function in that capacity, when needed, there would be no
additional cost to the City.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
Staff has ore 6-• 6- a".• -Ai r",. is OA •
a Youth Council/Commission based upon 5 members and 12 members below:
A. if the Commission recommended establishing a Youth Council/Commission of 5
members with a monthly stipend of $50, the cost would be $3,000 per year. Staff
costs to process agendas, take minutes and staff meetings are estimated to be
approximately $26,024 per year, for a total cost of $29,024 per year.
B. If the Commission recommended establishing a Youth Council/Commission of 12
members with a monthly stipend of $50, the cost would be $7,200 per year. Staff
costs to process agendas, take minutes and staff meetings are estimated to be
approximately $26,024 per year, for a total cost of $33,224 per year.
Staff costs were based upon a contract secretary at $28/hour with an average three
hour meeting minimum. If existing staff were assigned to conduct the research and
. report writing for a new Youth Council/Commission, the result would be a reduction
in time allotted to other programs.
If the Teen Advisory Committee were - to continue to function as it has in the past,
there would be no additional cost to the City.
C. "A Round Table of Civic Affairs Day" event expenses is estimated to be
$2,622.83. .
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Minutes of the January 4, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting
B. Minutes of the January 10, 2005 Council meeting
C. Minutes of the February 1, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting
D. Minutes of the February 15, 2005 Teen Advisory Committee meeting
E. Proposed Budget for "A Round Table of Civic Affairs Day"
MOTION:
That the Parks and Recreation Commission:
13City of Culver City, California
Parks and Recreation Commission Report
1. Recommend to City Council to use the Teen Advisory Group of the City as Well
as representatives of Middle and High School Leadership Classes and other
interested students whenever youth input is needed and requested and to involve
these students in the planning of "A Round Table of Civic Affairs Day" to
introduce the youth of the Cityto their government. officials, staff, etc., the goal of
whirh minl lid he to inrrpRqp pintarpnpcc nf qnr1 intPrp0 in ti-tPir nity Run
involvement opportunities available to them, OR
2. Give other recommendation(s) to City Council, OR
3.
Give further direction to the Subcommittee and staff regarding this issue.The meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order by Chair James
at 7: o3 p.m. in the Dan Patacchia Room, City Hall.
o0o
Roll Call
ATTACHMENT 8
These Minutes are not official until approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
November 16, 2005
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
7:00 p.m.
CITY OF CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
CHAIR JEANETTE JAMES
Call to Order
Members Present: Commissioners James Daly Redholtz ' , Deen, Cooper, Shapiro
Staff Present:
Others Present:
William La Pointe, Parks, Recreation and Coramunity Services Director
Heather Iker, Assistant City Prosecutor
Patti Mooney, Senior Management Analyst
Marty Nicholson- 'Recreation Manager'
Hank Davies, Police Captain'
Dan Garcia, Associate Engineer
- -
Jay Handal, Culver City Business Association
(30o-
(excerpt)
Item A-4.
(8:19 p.m.)
Review Subcommittee report on the need and/or establishment of a Youth
Advisory Council and make a recommendation to City Council.
BM La Pointe gave the staff report and reported on the progress of the Subcommittee
(comprised of Commissioners Daly Redholtz and James) in this effort. Focus centered
on whether there is a need for a Youth Advisory Council/Commission to handle youth
issues, and if so, what would be the costs.
Commissioner Daly Redholtz pointed out that one of the things that became clear in
conversations the Subcommittee had with youth is that many students indicated they
were mainly concerned about school issues and their involvement in school; and that in
speaking to • teachers, they indicated students were not aware of how city government
works or how to get involved in learning more about local government.
15Parks and Recreation Commission November 16, 2005
Commissioner Daly Redholtz also added that rather than forming a new group, we
should look at using the existing Teen Advisory Group, as well as representatives of the
Middle School and High School leadership classes and other interested students
whenever youth input is needed. That was part of the Subcommittee's recommendation.
Commissioner Deen asked why there was no input from Teen Center youth in this
process.
Commissioner James responded to Commissioner Deen's comment
Mr. La Pointe mentioned one idea to create interest/involvement that was suggested by
the Subcommittee was to develop a "Round Tables of Civic Affairs Day" event comprised
of representatives from various governmental bodies in a location.
Commissioner Cooper mentioned that most of the High:. School students who are
interested in learning about government would be involved in the YMCA's Youth &
Government program that meets regularly at City Hall.
Responding to Commissioner Deen's query, Commissioner Daly Redholtz explained the
Subcommittee went to the schools because there 14-as a larger pool of students who might
be interested, and that it was not the intent Of the Subcommittee to ignore the Teen
Center kids.
Commissioner James deferred to Pointe to elabbrate on a suggestion to develop a
• Web database on teen information.
Discussion continued.
At this time, Commissioner Daly Redboltz proposed a nibbon to recommend to the City
Council that the Commission does not see the need or the feasibility of a Teen Advisory
Commission at thi6sVnt, but that the Commission wishes to continue exploring the ideas
of 1.) utilizing teen advisory group at the Middle and High School leadership classes; 2)
possibility of a Round Tables. 7 o ivic Affairs Day event; and 3) possibility of a Web
database email blasting, et.0 as was of rcching out to youth.
Commtssioner James suggested not using the word "need" as a survey to assess teen
needs was never conducted:
Commissioner Daly Redholtz amended her motion and the following action was taken:
MOVED BY COMMISSIONER DALY REDHOLTZ THAT AT THIS TIME THE PARKS
AND RECREATION CC MISSION DOES NOT RECOMMEND THE ESTABLISHMENT
OF A YOUTH ADVISORY COMMISSION; HOWEVER, THE COMMISSION WOULD
LIKE TO FURTHER EXPLORE 1.) USING THE TEENADVISORY GROUP OF THE CITY
AS WELL AS REPRESENTATIVES OF MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
CLASSES FOR YOUTH INPUT; 2) EXPLORATION WITH TEENS AT "A ROUND
TABLE OF CIVIC AFFAIRS DAY"; 3) EXPLORATION OF A WEB DATABASE EMAIL
BLAST INFORMATION SYSTEM REQUEST; AND OTHER IDEAS AS THEY COME UP.
Commissioner James seconded the motion.
Commissioner Deen asked for more iriformation regarding the Youth & Government
organization that Commissioner Cooper had mentioned earlier.
16
2AYES: Commissioners James, Daly Redholtz;, CooPer, Shapiro,
-
NOES: Commissioner Dem
ABSTAIN: None
The Motion passes by a 4-1 vote.
17|1010|Parks and Recreation Commission November 16,2005
Commissioner Cooper responded the YMCA Youth & Government is a statewide
organization, with their own governing board who are elected by members, that provides
opportunity for youth to learn about government and legislation.
Commissioner Daly Redholtz said Youth & Government should have been added to her
motion. She noted that the organization focuses on state and federal issues rather than
local and since it is sponsored by YMCA, it could serve as an adjunct to the Teen
Advisory Group.
Commissioner Deen said he was not comfortable with this idea since we are approaching
an election year.
Commissioner James asked Commissioner Deen for clarification regarding his comment.
With no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote on the motion.TOTAL
DESCRIPTION
INCOME PROJECTION
433500 Deferred Retirement 0.00 0.500 n6
EXPENSE PROJECTION 11111 STEP "G" HOURS SUBTOTAL TOTAL
411100 Permanent Employees
IMP
Planning Meetings @ 2 firs Rec Coordinator
MIN Flyer Preparation 1 hrs Rec Coordinator 22.65 1.00
Publicity Preparation 3 firs 3.00
mow|109| •- 22.65 22.65
22.65 2.00
2.00 45.30
11 .11.1
Council Reports -2 firs Rec Manager
EM11111111111111111111111.111111111111.
I Research on Event -2 hrs Rec Manager III.M.n.IMNIMM l
1111. 11111111111 545.44 7 41.
.65% 7z,
ammia lill . Il aglimmai
0.00
22.65 Rec Coordinator
183.04
PERS Retirement 433000 362.40 0.067
Photocopying Charge
1.111111111.11=11111
438000 1
434000 Worker's Compensation 545.44 0.035
435000 =
IN1111111111111111n011111
RESENT:= - 105-00NCISW 7
A_ NESIEMENEOSSONNW .,,, ,,.,. MUNE Paper for Flyers 111111111111111111M•111=6.0 . 00 . 111=1.1111111.11
MS"IIIMIIIIMIIIIIMMIMIM . 04 III=1
11111r11111111M122=111111111111111111111111.1.1
111.11111.1111.1111.11MININE 50.00
III=
Food Costs 11111111111111•111 200 1.50
MEM Room Set Up Costs 1111111111111111111111111111 MIIIIIIIIIn11
111111111
Teen Center Rental Costs •
1111111111111111111•1111111=1111•111
1111111111111111n111111111101111111111111111111111111111111111111n111111111111MINIMINIIIIIIII
IIIIIIMINIII•1111111112111 18.09
0.00
211.00
512100 Office Supplies
651.20
15,030
514100 Departmental Special Supplies
700.00
0.0269 Liability Reserve Charges 643.33
MOM
Posters
e
I|109| 1 1 1 ATTACHMENT .,
PROPOSED BUDGET FOR "A ROUND TABLE OF CIVIC AFFAIRS DAY"
I /Account Number: 10132600 1 BUDGET 1
FY05-061 I 1Date(s) of Program: /TBD 1
Mission: To offer a government learning opportunity to youth in the community.
11111111111MININIMMINIMINIIMMINIMIIIIMM111111 1111111.1111111
111111111 1 j AM INNI11111111YES NO
Berkeley
Burbank
Burlingame
Costa Mesa
Cypress
Encinitas
Escondido
Huntington Beach
La Canada Flintridge
La Mesa
Laguna Niguel
Lemoore
Milpitas
Monterey Park
Murrieta
Newport Beach
Paso Robles
Redondo Beach
Ridgecrest
Sacramento
San Carlos
Santa Clara
Santa Clarita
Saratoga
Seaside
Sunnyvale
Torrance
Union City
Westminster
Yorba Linda
Yuba City
Adelanto
Arroyo Grande
Bakersfield
Carmel
Carpinteria
Corona
Corte Madera
Covina
Davis
Duarte
East Palo Alto
El Cerrito
Escalon
Fortuna
Garden Grove
Glendora
Hermosa Beach
La Palma
Laguna Hills
LaWndale
Lincoln
Merced
Montclair
Orange
Piedmont
Ripon
Roseville
San Bruno
San Clemente
San Dimas
Santa Monica
Shasta Lake
St. Helena
Suisun City
Temple City
Town of Windsor
Twenty-nine Palms
Ventura
Victorville
Winters
ATTACHMENT 10
YOUTH ADVISORY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE
Results of June 13, 2006 Email Survey of California Cities
1. Does your City have a Youth Advisory Commission or Committee where
membership is limited to community members ages 18 and under?
Number Percentage
Cities ernailed 325
Emails delivered 292
Responses 71 24.3%
Youth Advisory Group — YES 31 43.7%
Youth Advisory Group — NO 40 56.3%YOUTH ADVISORY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE
Results of June 13, 2006 Email Survey of California Cities
2. Is it a Youth Advisory Commission or a Youth Advisory Committee?
Number Percentage
Responses 31 100.0%
Commission 13 18.3%
Committee 13 18.3%
Other 5 16.1%
3. How many members are there?
Number Percentage
Responses 30 96.8%
Five to Nine members 11 36_7%
Ten to Fifteen members 13 43.3%
Sixteen or more members 6 20.0%
4. What is the procedure for becoming a member (appointed by Council, etc.)?
Number Percentage
Responses 24 77.4%
Appointed by Council 16 66.7%
Selected by Staff 4 16.7%
Selected by the Mayor 2 8.3%
Other 2 8.3%
5. What are the members' basic responsibilities?
Note: In some cases, more than one responsibility was stated.
• Number Percentage
Responses 30 96.8%
Advisory 20 66.7%
Special Events 19 63.3%
Special Projects 18 6.0%
Advocacy 8 26.7%
Educate the Public 6 20.0%
Community Service 6 20.0%
Do the members receive a stipend or any other type of payment/reimbursement for
participating?
Number Percentage
Responses 29 96.7%
NO 27 93.1%
YES 2 6.9%
20ATTACHMENT 11
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION PROVIDED BY VARIOUS CITIES
REGARDING THEIR YOUTH ADVISORY GROUPS
a) City of Encinitas City Ordinance 2.48 titled, "Youth Commission"
b) City of Lemoore 2006 Youth Advisory Commission brochure
c) City of Sacramento, Sacramento Youth Commission information
sheet
d) City of San Carlos Youth Advisory Commission goals and bylaws
e) City of Union City Youth Commission staff report and proposed
ordinance
f) City of Yorba Linda Teen Action Committee introductory letter and
member application
2106-05 2.48.010
CHAPTER 2.48
YOUTH COMMISSION
2.48.010 Youth Commission Established. The Youth Commission of the City of
Encinitas is hereby established under the provisions of Ordinance 2000-16.
2.48.020 Membership. (Ord. 2005-02)
A. The Youth Commission shall consist of eleven (11) voting members, all
residents of the City of Encinitas, and be comprised as follows:
1. Three (3) representatives from middle school grades 7 th and 8th.
2. Three (3) representatives from high school grades 9 th and 10th.
3. Four (4) representatives from high school grades 11 th and 12th•
4. One (1) at large representative fourteen (14) to nineteen (19) years
of age.
B. Term of Service:
1. Voting members shall be appointed by City Council and serve one
(1) year terms for not more than four (4) consecutive years.
2.48.040 Project Advisors.
A. The Commission may appoint Project Advisors to assist in the research,
planning, development and presentation of specific projects as may be
defined in a City Council approved work plan.
2.48.050 Public Meetings.
A. Six (6) voting members of the Youth Commission shall constitute a
quorum for-the purpose of conducting business. (Ord. 2005-02).
B. Meetings shall be held at least once each month and at a time and place as
designated by the Commission and pursuant to the Ralph M. Brown Act.
C. The Youth Commission shall elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
from among its voting members for one year terms.
2202-01 2.48.060
2.48.060 Duties of Commission.
A. Duties include:
1. Development of Annual Work Plan and presentation to City
Council.
2. Review and update from time to time, as necessary, the
Youth/Teen Master Plan.
3. Advise City Council on matters regarding youth and teen services,
programs, and cooperation with other public and private agencies.
As necessary, appointment of an Ad Hoc Sub-Committee among
its members to help achieve elements of their approved work plan.
5. Appointment of an elementary school age Sub-Committee to help
address issues and programs for elementary age youth, as may be
related to the Commission's approved Work Plan.
6. Implementation of City Council directives.
23— 2005 Parks & Recreation
Commissioners
City of Lemoore
Parks & Recreation
Department
2006
YOUTH
ADVISORY
COMMISSION
Est. 1996
YAC and Teen Center Students as
2003 Downtown Merchants
Evening Under the Stars Recipients
for Teen Center Fundraiser
APPLICATION
Chairman - Robert Flores
Vice Chair - Willie Keel
Member - Jane Dart
Member - Sandy Hall
Member - Juan Sanchez
Member - Keven Shier
Member—Alena Almanza
2005
Youth Advisory Commission
Chairperson - Jessica Maldonado
Vice Chair/Sec - Asia Croson
Member - Frances Blagg-Ford
Member - Mikal Dominguez
Member - Carl Hamilton
Member - Sarah Hamilton
Member - RoselleIle Patterson
Parks & Recreation Dept. Advisors
Tom Hernandez—Director
Lynne Nelson—SupervisorServing as a YAC member meets the
High School Community Senriee
hours requirement
•
Apply at the Lemoot e Parks
4f5
A Youth Advisory Commissioner (YAC)
is a student representing grades 7 - 12
within the Lemoore High School District
area. Accepted students will serve for one
year from January 1 through December 31
and may reapply for the following year if
eligible.
YAC will serve as a voice" for the teen
community. The YAC will serve as a link
between the Parks and Recreation Depart-
ment and the youth of Lemoore to identify
issues, communicate concerns and suggest
teen programs, activities and youth interest.
The Youth Advisory Commission meets
the 2nd Tuesday every month at 5:00 p.m.
and works directly with an advisor in-
decision making and recommendations to
the Parks and Recreation Commission.
The Youth Advisory
Commission encour-
ages youth leader-
ship and responsibil-
ity through volun-
teerism and community involvement
throughout the year. Some community
activites include the July 4th Celebration,
Breakfast with Santa, servers for Evening
NVeivould to
thank the
community for
giving us a voice.
Under the Stars, parking duty for the
Sports Foundation, participate in the
Cancer Relay for Life and host a
Halloween Carnival, as well as assist at
Kids Night Out Parties and fammin
Dances.
Our Vision:
• Enhance community awareness and
communication, which includes
youth awareness of the community
and the community's awareness of
youth issues.
• Promote and act as advocate for
Kings County Anti Drug & Tobacco
Programs.
• Support the endeavors of Lemoore's
LHS Character Counts values.
• Promote youth interests in culture
and diversity.
• Advocate for youth needs and opin-
ions related to education.
YOUTH ADVISORY
COMMISSION
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Rotary Youth Skate Park
Veterans Hall Teen Center
Original Teen Center -
!
Senior Center Facility|1010|Promotion of Youth Program
Needs
Ca Co/CaCaCaCatOtrjEORYEtnt)
If you are interested, applications are
available in your school office or at tl-T.0
Park and Recreation Departmentc`J
Your application must be postmarked
and/Or received by 5:00 p.m. Thurs-
day, November 10, 2005 to the
LernOore Parks and Recreation Dept.
Mail to: 119 Fox St., Lernoore 93245
Deliver to: 435 "C Street, Lemoore.
If you have any questions, please
contact Lynne Nelson at 924-6767.Sacramento Youth Commission
The Sacramento City Youth Commission was established by the
Sacramento City Council to serve as an advisory group to provide
recommendations on youth related issues in Sacramento. The
Commission provides youth an opportunity to participate in the
policy making process and provides a forum for the exchange of
ideas, needs and concerns related to youth. The Youth Commission
meets bi-weekly, from 6-8pm. Commissioners are between the ages
of 14-19 and reside or attend school in the city of Sacramento. For
more information call the Commission Coordinator at 433-4066 to
apply.
Join Us
Are you between the ages of 14 and 19? Would you like to contribute to decisions that
affect the youth in your community? If so, we invite you to submit an application to serve
on the Sacramento City Youth Commission.
The Sacramento City Council established the Sacramento Youth Commission, in order to
advise them on youth-related policies. Since then, we have addressed many issues that
concern Sacramento's youth: alcohol and drug awareness, graffiti, skateboard parks and
more. We have also established an annual Scholarship Award and a Coat and Blanket
Drive.
Benefits
• Provides a unique experience with city governmental procedures.
• Gives opportunities to help address Sacramento's youth.
• Offers chances to meet motivated youth from around the city.
• Provides a voice to raise issues, concerns and ideas.
• Financially compensates time and effort with stipends.
"Being in Youth Commission allows me to take an active role in my community." -Jennifer
Nishizaki, District 7
Contact
For additional information or to request an application, please contact Commission
Coordinator, Cheryl Rose:
Attn: Youth Commission
5730 24th Street
Sacramento, CA.95822
Phone: (916) 433-4066
Fax: (916) 433-4071
Email: crose@citvofsacramento.org
26YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
Role
The Youth Advisory Council advises the City Council on matters relating to the
youth and teen population within the City of San Carlos. This may include
programs relating to safety, recreation, drug awareness, special interests, sports,
community involvement, socialization, and environmental concerns.
In addition, the VAC promotes and conducts healthy, safe and fun activities for
the youth of San Carlos. Fund raising for youth oriented projects is also an
important role of the YAC. All funds are distributed on the sole recommendation
of the San Carlos Youth Advisory Council and it's members. Giving back to the
community is an important aspect of the YAC.
Goals
1. Foster greater involvement of youth in municipal government affairs.
2. Study problems, activities, and concerns of youth, especially as they
relate to municipal programs or projects of the City of San Carlos.
3. Hold forums on problems, activities and concerns of youth, either alone or
in conjunction with other governmental agencies and community
organizations, as the Youth Advisory Council deems desirable.
4. Recommend the implementation of community programs which the Youth
Advisory Council deems desirable.
5. Review those municipal matters referred to by the City Council or other
City committees and, as appropriate, make recommendations on
those matters.
For more information on the San Carlos Youth Advisory Council,
please call 802-4471, Jeri Fujimoto, YAC Advisor
or write to San Carlos YAC, 1001 Chestnut Street, San Carlos, CA 94070
27-3NI°111
A 0
34009 ALVARADO-NILES ROAD
C) „fier,A.1 UNION CITY, CALIFORNIA 94587 CIT Y MANAGERS OFFICE
-1/417'
o 011-ir4rED
DATE September 13, 2005
TO City Council
FROM Antonio E Acosta, Deputy City Manager/Leisure Services Director
SUBJECT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE TWO OF THE UNION
CITY MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING A YOUTH
COIVEVIISSION;
REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING
IMPLEMENTATION OF TH Pe UNION CITY YOUTH
COMMISSION
An Ordinance his been prepared amending Title 2 of the Union City Municipal Code (UCMC)
establishing a Youth Commission. This report also includes a series of specific
recommendations to implement the new Youth Commission for the City of Union City. Staff
recommends that the City Council approve the first reading of the proposed Ordinance
Staff gratefully acknowledges the extensive input of the Union City Youth Committee in the
preparation of the proposed Ordinance and this report.
BACKGROUND
On May 24, 2005 the City Council approved a staff report recommending the formation of a
Youth Commission for the City of Union City. That report proposed to use the existing Union
City Youth Conamittee-to-assist-staffin-developing-a-Mission-Statement-ancl-By-Laws-forthe-- - - —
proposed Youth Commission; staff would then adapt these documents to the required UCMC
faimat, making only_those_changes_that_were_felt_to_be_appropriate_and necessary Copies_of
the Youth Committee's draft Mission Statement and By-Laws arc attached to this report as
Attachments One and Two, respectively.
THE PROPOSED YOUTH COMMISSION
Membership - The proposed Ordinance establishes a fifteen (15) member Youth Commission,
with five (5) members nominated by the Mayor and City Council (one each) and ten (10)
members nominated by a special Nominating Committee consisting of one member of the City
Council, one community member, and one City staff member. The Nominating Committee and
each Youth Commissioner would be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City
28Youth Commission Report
May 24, 2005
Council. In addition, ex officio members to the Youth Commission may be appointed by the
City Council (one) and New Haven Unified School District Board of Education (one), if either
body so chooses.
Youth Commissioners would have to be Union City residents, aged 12-19, and in the 7th
through 12 grades.
Term of Office and Removal from Office — one (1) year terms are proposed for the Youth
Conunission, with re-appointment allowed up to three times for a total tenure limit of four (4)
years. As with other City commissions, members can be removed by the Mayor or by a
majority vote of the City Council. One year terms are recommended to provide opportunities
for more youth to serve on the Youth Commission, and the flexibility of a four-year maximum
tenure is provided to allow for continuity of service in cases where it is desired and merited.
Officers — based upon the recommendations of the Youth Committee, two officers will serve
the Youth Commission: a Facilitator, and a Secretary. Staff recommends that alternates to
these two positions also be elected by the Youth Commission to provide continuity in cases of
temporary absence.
The Facilitator functions as the de facto Chair of the Youth Commission, and will perfoiin
such functions using Roberts Rules of Order (not proposed by the Youth Committee, but
recommended by staff).
The Secretary will serve as recorder for the Youth Commission, and will be assisted by the
Leisure Services Department and Office of the City Clerk as is necessary to ensure compliance
with the Ralph M. Brown (Open Meetings) Act.
Meetings — the Youth Commission will meet twice monthly, rotating the location of its
meetings from the west side of Union City to the east side of town. The typical west side
location for Youth Commission meetings will be Holly Community Center, and the typical east
side meeting location will be the William May Teen center located in Kennedy Park. The
Youth Commission may change its meeting locations and schedule by a majority vote.
Duties — a wide-ranging scope of duties is proposed for the Youth Commission, including the
following:
• Sponsoring and promoting youth oriented community events in Union City.
• Organizing and conducting youth-related programs and activities in Union City.
• Recommending youth-related policies to the City Council.
• Evaluating the need for, and making recommendations to the City Council for, youth-
related programs, facilities, and budget appropriations
29Youth Commission Report
-3- May 24, 2005
• Soliciting grants from public and private agencies and individuals to promote youth
programs in Union City.
• Managing an annual Youth Commission budget as appropriated by the City Council.
• Adopting by majority vote an annual budget and a budget for each event sponsored by
the Youth Commission.
• Raising funds on its own behalf and placing those funds in a Youth Commission Trust
Account held by the City Leisure Services Department.
• Representing the City of Union City in local, regional, State-wide and National youth
events.
• Following Roberts Rules of Order and the Ralph M. Brown Act in its meetings, agendas
and public notices.
• Performing such other functions and rendering such other reports and recommendations
as may be directed by the City Coimcil.
• Exercising only the powers herein above enumerated (i.e., as listed in the proposed
Ordinance).
Commission Support — City staff will provide direct support to the Youth Commission, with
Leisure Services staff providing most of the support. In addition, the City Clerk and City
Attorney may be asked to provide specific training and orientation to the Youth Commission as
needed (e.g., on the Brown Act, Roberts Rules of Order, etc.).
PROPOSED ACTION PLAN
Should the City Council approve the first reading of the proposed Ordinance creating a Youth
Commission, staff recommends the following action steps:
1. Recruitment — using the draft application form prepared by staff (see Attachment
Three), staff will seek nominations from the Holly and Kennedy Centers, the teen
Center, and most importantly, from the New Haven Unified School District. The
application form will also be listed on the City website and on Cable Channel 15.
Nominations will be open on a continual basis, with interviews conducted as needed to
maintain a full Youth Commission.
2. The proposed Ntinimation Committee should be selected by the City Council as-soon
as possible. This means that one Council Member should be selected, along with one
community member; a City staff member will also be selected by the City Manager
to complete the Nomination Committee.
3. With school back in session, it is expected that a sufficient pool of applicants will be
gathered by the end of September. If the Nominating Committee can be selected and
appointed by the City Council by the September 27, 2005 Council meeting, then the
Committee can get right to work interviewing and nominating potential Youth
Commissioners with the goal of having a slate of nominees forwarded to the City
30Youth Commission Report
-4- May 24, 2005
Council for consideration at the October 25, 2005 Council meeting. The first
Youth Commission meeting would then be held in early November, 2005.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no new fiscal impact resulting from the first reading of the proposed Ordinance. The
City Council has already approved a budget of $12,200 for the Youth Commission and the
Leisure Services Department:
• $5000 for an annual Youth Event (or events) and
• $7200 for the staff time required to support the Youth Commission.
The staff support figure represents 20 hours of staff time per month for direct Youth
Commission support.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Staff recommends that the City Council
1. approve the first reading of the proposed Ordinance amending Title 2 of the Union City
Municipal Code (UCMC) establishing a Youth Commission; and
2. approve the recommended Action Plan required to implement the proposed Youth
Commission.
Submitted by: Approved by:
Antonio E. Acosta
Deputy City Manager/
Director of Leisure
Services
Lamy D. Cheeves
City Manager
31ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF UNION
CITY AMENDING TITLE 2 OF THE UNION CITY MUNICIPAL CODE
(Youth Commission)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF UNION CITY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Title 2 of the Union City Municipal Code is hereby amended by the
addition of Chapter 2.21 "Youth Commission" as follows:
2.21,010 Statement of Purpose.
It is the purpose of the City Council to create in the City a Youth Commission to
address the issues pertinent to the youth of Union City and to advise the City
Council and City staff on matters pertaining to youth. The Youth Commission
shall provide a forum for the discussion of youth-related concerns and shall
represent the interests of all youth in this community. The Youth Commission
shall also take an active role in planning and conducting youth-related events in
the City of Union City.
2.21.020 Appointment - Qualifications of members.
In order to further the public policy of the City, there is created a Youth
Commission of fifteen (15) members. Members of the Youth Commission shall
be residents -of Union City aged 12-19 (7th grade through 12 th grade).
Five (5) members of the Youth Commission shall be nominated by the Mayor
and City Council (one per Council member and one by the Mayor), and ten (10)
members of the Youth Commission shall be nominated by a Nomination
Committee consisting of one (1) City Council member, one (1) community
member appointed by the City Council, and one (1) City staff member appointed
by the City Manager.
All nominees to the Youth Commission shall be appointed by the Mayor with the
approval of the City Council.
2.21.030 Term of office.
The term of office of the members of the Youth Commission shall be one (1) year
and members may be reappointed up to three (3) times, for a total tenure not to
exceed four (4) years. At the expiration of the term so provided for, a successor
shall be nominated by the Nomination Committee and appointed by the Mayor
with the concurrence of at least three members of the City Council. Each Youth
Commissioner so appointed shall serve until his/her successor is appointed and
32qualified_ Any vacancy among the appointed members shall be filled by
appointment by the Mayor with the concurrence of at least three members of the
City Council for the unexpired portion of the term.
221.040 Removal from office.
Any appointed member of the Youth Commission may be removed by the Mayor,
subject to the approval of the City Council, or by a majority vote of the City
Council.
2.21.050 Ex officio members.
The City Council may by resolution appoint such members of the Council, City
Officials, or employees as it deems advisable to assist the Youth Commission by
serving as an ex officio non-voting member of the Union City Youth Commission.
The New Haven Unified School District Board of Education shall be requested to
appoint one of its members or an employee of the New Haven Unified School
District to serve as an ex officio non-voting member of the Union City Youth
Commission.
2.21.060 Officers.
During the month of September, the Youth Commission shall elect from among
its members a Facilitator (Chair) and a Secretary to serve for one year and who
may be re-elected once to serve a maximum of two (2) years. The Youth
Commission shall also elect one alternate to each officer, so that the alternate
can temporarily assume the duties of the Facilitator and/or Secretary in their
absence.
As soon as practicable following the vacation of office by the Facilitator or
Secretary, the Youth Commission shall reorganize by electing from its members
a Facilitator and/or Secretary, as necessary, to serve at the pleasure of the
Commission.
The Secretary shall record the minutes of the Youth Commission and keep a
record of its resolutions, proceedings and transactions. The Secretary shall be
assisted by the Leisure Services Director or his/her appointee and the Office of
the City Clerk as required to comply with the Ralph M Brown Act.
2.21.070 Meetings.
The Youth Commission shall fix the time and place of regular and special
meetings of the Commission, which shall not be less frequent than twice each
month. Commission meetings shall alternate between locations on the west side
of Union City and locations on the east side of Union City. Meetings shall not run
33longer than 9:00 p.m. on school nights, and all meetings shall be open to the
public.
2.21.080 Duties.
The Youth Commission shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
A. Sponsoring and promoting youth oriented community events in Union
City.
B. Organizing and conducting youth-related programs and activities in
Union City.
C. Recommending youth-related policies to the City Council.
D. Evaluating the need for, and making recommendation to the City Council
for, youth-related programs, facilities, and budget appropriations
E. Soliciting grants from public and private agencies and individuals to
promote youth programs in Union City.
F. Managing an annual Youth Commission budget as appropriated by the
City Council.
G. Adopting by majority vote an annual budget and a budget for each event
sponsored by the Youth Commission.
H. May raise funds on its own behalf and place those funds in a Youth
Commission Trust Account held by the City Leisure Services
Department.
I. Representing the City of Union City in local, regional, State-wide and
National youth events.
J. Following Roberts Rules of Order and the Ralph M. brown Act in its
meetings, agendas and public notices.
K. Performing such other functions and rendering such other reports and
recommendations as may be directed by the City Council.
L. Exercising only the powers herein above enumerated.
Section 2. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of
this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of
any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of this City hereby declares that
34it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause,
phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 3. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after the date of its
passage. Before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its passage, this Ordinance
shall be published once in the Argus, a newspaper of general circulation, printed and
published in the County of Alameda and circulated in the City of Union City.
35March 7, 2006
Dear Teen Action Committee Applicant:
The City of Yorba Linda would like to present the T.A.C. (Teen Action Committee) program.
Purpose: To involve middle school students in planning, creating and implementing a variety of teen
activities and volunteer events designed for their peers.
Mission: We will strive to creatively respond to the needs and interests of the teens in our
community.
September 2006 will mark the eighth year of T.A.C. We are hoping that with the continued input from
middle school students we can make this school year as fun and safe as possible. We feel that this
creative input from the T.A.C. team will help us better understand the interests of these middle school
teens.
The benefits of being a T.A.C. member are numerous. You will receive free admission to all Teen
Scene events, a sense of accomplishment by participating in community service, a better,
understanding of local government, and community recognition that can be used for high schoot
and/or college applications.
All members are required to attend two planning meetings per month, attend at least three Teen
Scene events, and commit to volunteering twenty hours of community service. Examples of duties
may include, but are not limited to assisting with the planning of teen dances, winter and spring
camps, excursions, Volunteer Connection Day and other City-wide teen events.
Applications are due by Friday, May 111, 2006 by 5:00 p.m. Upon receipt of application and all
supplemental material, your information will be reviewed and all qualifying applicants will be
contacted regarding an interview during the week of May 1. We will inform new Teen Action
Committee members of their acceptance by Wednesday, May 10, 2006 and all accepted members
will be invited to attend the Teen Action Committee Installation and Community Volunteer Recognition
Reception on-Thursday, May-18,-2006. if after reviewing the T.A.C. information packet you still have _ _
any questions regarding the program please call us at (714) 961-7192.
Sincerely,
Tony Brescini Katie Elmore
Recreation Coordinator Recreation Specialist
36CITY OF YORBA LINDA PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
TEEN ACTION COMMITTEE
Mission: We will strive to creatively respond to the needs and interests of the teens
in our community.
Goal: To offer middle school teens opportunities to become involved in the
design and implementation of programs and activities during non-school
hours, connect teens with volunteer opportunities and give them a voice in
the community.
Selection Procedure:
• T.A.C. applications are available at Thomas Lasorda Jr. Field House, Travis
Ranch Activity Center, Parks and Recreation Department at City Hall, and from
the activities director at Travis Ranch, Bernardo Yorba, and Yorba Linda Middle
Schools.
• All applicants must commit to attend two planning meetings per month, attend at
least three Teen Scene events, and commit to volunteering twenty hours of
community service.
• For teens entering the 7 th and 8 th grades during the 2006/2007 school year.
• Yorba Linda resident and/or attend a public or private middle school within the
City of Yorba Linda.
• Qualified applicants will be invited for a panel interview.
All interested applicants must complete the following steps:
1. Complete the application and all supplemental material and return it to Thomas
Lasorda Jr. Field House no later than Friday, May 11, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. Be sure
it includes the appropriate signatures. (Postmarks not accepted)
2. Attached to the application is a Teacher Recommendation form. Give this form,
along with a stamped envelope addressed to the City of Yorba Linda, to a
teacher you have worked with this year. The envelope should be addressed as
follows:
City of Yorba Linda
T.A.C. Recommendation
P.O. Box 87014
Yorba Linda, CA 92885-8714
37City of Yorba Linda Parks and Recreation Department
T.A.0
Teen Action Committee
Application
Name: Phone:
Grade
(CURRENT) : Age: School (CURRENT): After School Activities/School Electives:
Personal Interests:
Why would you want to be involved with T.A.C. and note your qualifications: State what you expect to get out of being a T.A.C. member: List any ideas you have for after school activities Certificate of Applicant:
I certify that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my
knowledge. I understand that any false statements will subject me to disqualification.
Signature Date Signature of Legal Guardian Date 38Teen Action Committee Participation/Medical Form
2006/2007
Participant Name: Home Phone: Address: City: Zip: Grade: Age: School: Please note any medical conditions we should be aware of for your son/daughter's safety: Are "PG-13" movies acceptable for your child? YES NO (No "R" rated movies will be shown).
Emergency Contact Information:
Parent Name: Work Phone: I/We authorize the following person(s) to pick up my/our child:
ame:
Relationship: Day Phone: Night Phone: Name: Day Phone: Relationship: Night Phone: I/We grant my son/daughter permission to participate in the City of Yorba Linda 'Teen Action
Committee"; and to be transported by City of Yorba Linda employees, City of Yorba Linda vehicles, or
othT •••. el •
_ .
ang_e-d by the---City: ree to hold-harmless-,-indemnify,-and -defend-the--- -
City of Yorba Linda and it's officers, agents, or employees from any liability claim or action resulting
from or in any way arising out of the participation of this activity by the registered person. I give the
City of Yorba Linda permission to photograph me or my children participating in the program for use
in future Community Services publicity and I will not receive compensation for such use.
Parent Signature: Date: 39TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
In an effort to ensure that the most qualified applicants are considered for the Teen Action Committee
the Yorba Linda Parks and Recreation Department is requesting each applicant to submit a teacher
recommendation form which will be considered when his/her application is reviewed. This evaluation
is a confidential document that will help us determine this individual's strengths and weaknesses.
Please be sure to record some of your own personal comments, as this could be a determining factor
in whether or not an individual is accepted into our T.A.C. program. Your time and thoughts are
greatly appreciated.
Student's Name: Teacher's Name: Subject Taught: School Name: School Phone Number: School Address: Rate 1-5 1 = Needs Improvement 5 = Excellent
Attitude towards peers and teachers 1 2 3 4 5
Possesses leadership qualities 1 2 3 4 5
Has respect of peers 1 2 3 4 5
Takes initiative when presented with a problem 1 2 3 4 5
Has good communication skills 1 2 3 4 5
Responds well to direction 1 2 3 4 5
Maintains a positive attitude 1 2 3 4 5
Completes tasks with care for quality 1 2 3 4 5
Please write a few comments about this student (use back of needed):
MAIL TO THE CITY OF YORBA LINDA, T.A.C. RECOMMENDATION BY May 11, 2006
Ra Box 87014
Yorba Linda, CA 92885-8714
40LOS ANGELES YOUTH COUNCIL WEB PAGE
ATTACHMENT 12
Mission Statement
The Youth Council is a group of young people who come together to represent and reflect
the opinions and concerns of the youth of the City of Los Angeles by: promoting existing
positive programs; designing and developing programs and activities that involve youth in the
communities; advocating on behalf of youth; and involving young people in the governmental
process.
Members must Healthy City Links
Youth Engagement Asset Map
• Live in the city of Los Angeles, Youth Employment
• Be between the ages of 14 and 19,
• Regularly attend youth council
meetings,
• Be actively interested in youth issues,
and
• Be able to work as part of a team
One youth from each Council District is appointed by his or her City Councilmember to
represent the youth in that district. A second youth from each district serves as an alternate.
In addition to these young people, other young people from all over the city participate as
at-large Youth Council members.
Youth Council meetings are held on the second Saturday of every month at 10:00 AM at the
offices of the Commission for Children, Youth and their Families, 200 North Spring Street,
Room 2200 - Los Angeles, CA 90012.
For more information, contact us at:
E-mail: layouth@mailbox.lacity.org
Phone: (213) 978-1840
Y.C. MAIN PAGE
JJ
JOIN US
J
PHOTO ALBUM I
I HOT TOPICS I I MESSAGES BOARD I BULLETIN I
I
CCYF MAIN PAGE
i
or ch Tdrer, youth d thei r fmni NeiL.A. Youth Council Gives Teens a Taste of Politics
ATTACHMENT 13
Many lawmakers say experience on student panels helped influence their career choices.
By Cynthia H. Cho, Times Staff Writer April 11, 2006
Riding the bus from his West Adams home, 19-year-old
Rashad Rucker arrived half an hour early for his Saturday
morning meeting at Los Angeles City Hall. Security hadn't
even opened the doors. He has already learned one of
the most important skills necessary to be a successful
politician: punctuality. But he has a lot more to learn
before he's ready for office, said Rucker, a member of the
city's Youth Council. Rucker and many of his colleagues
on the panel aspire to public office — and they believe the
youth organization is their training ground.
They have good reason to think so. L.A. City Council
members Wendy Greuel and Tom LaBonge served on
youth councils. So did state Assemblymen Paul Koretz (D-
West Hollywood) and Mark Ridley-Thomas (D-Los
Angeles). They all said their experience on the panels
influenced their career paths. Rucker, a freshman at
Santa Monica College who has served nine months on the
youth panel, said he was looking forward to a life in
politics and hoped his time on the board would be
beneficial. "I want to go as high as maybe the City
Council or the Assembly," said Rucker, who plans to
transfer to UCLA and major in psychology and political
science.
different cultures," she said. "It opened doors for me that I
didn't even know existed."
For many of the students, the Youth Council is a place to
polish some of the social skills necessary for a successful
politician. At the panel's March 18 meeting, as he waited
for the session to begin, a smiling Rucker walked around
the room greeting his colleagues. "Good to meet you," he
said to one. "We've met before, right?" he said to another.
Katrina, who dreams of running for City Council or mayor
someday, said she was learning how to run a meeting and
negotiate with peers. During one of the panel's meetings,
members discussed what kinds of booths they should set
up at the Traffic Safety-Child Health & Safety Fair. Katrina
suggested a pie-eating contest "Any ideas? Anyone?"
she asked. "What about a fruit-eating contest?
responded Julie Prado, 16, a junior at Cleveland. After all,
she pointed out, its an event to promote health. In the
end, the group agreed on bean-bag-toss and face-painting
booths. Other issues that frequently come up at the youth
meetings aren't too different from what L.A. City Council
members often discuss: transportation, education and
public safety.
The Youth Council's roots go back to 1974, when then-
Mayor Tom Bradley created the Youth Advisory Council.
Its goal was to teach young people how the city works.
When he left office in 1993, the Youth Advisory Council
was put on hiatus as city officials developed new ways to
work with young people, said Olivia Mitchell, a member of
Bradley's staff who oversaw the youth panel. In 1995, the
Commission for Children, Youth and Their Families
formed and under it, in 1996, the Youth Council as it now
exists took shape. The group — which has more than two
dozen members from the San Fernando Valley, the
Westside, South Los Angeles and East Los Angeles —
learns about city issues, meets with elected officials and
makes policy recommendations to the City Council. The
panelists, who must five in L.A. and be between 14 and
19, are either recommended for service by a City Council
member or can simply ask to join. The group meets
monthly.
Youth Council President Katrina Landeta, 17, a senior at
Cleveland High School in Reseda, said that in the year
and a half she has been on the panel, she has learned a
lot about the city's diverse communities. "We discussed
issues from our high schools and the stuff other people
had to deal with [that] I never had to deal with," she said.
"I couldn't believe that other students, just miles from me,
have a completely different reality." Greuel, who grew up
in the Valley and served on the youth panel in the late
1970s, also said her time on the board gave her a window
into other parts of the city. "The great thing about the
youth council ... [was] it gave me the opportunity to
recognize the diversity of the city, to learn about the
In November, the City Council asked the Commission for
Children, Youth and Their Families to create a task force
— of young people, city officials and private industry —
that would develop a Youth Master Plan for the city. The
plan would outline policies on issues affecting young
people, such as employment, education and college
preparation; safety and violence prevention; and civic
engagement. This spring, the Youth Council will facilitate
a series of forums in different areas of the city where
young people can meet to talk about issues that affect
their lives and communities. The information will be used
by the task force to help create the master plan.
Councilman LaBonge said there are things he thinks the
City Council could learn from the youth panel, particularly
common courtesy. Not all Youth Council members
become politicians. Mitchell, who oversaw the Youth
Advisory Council from 1974 until 1993, said several of her
charges became lawyers. Craig Renetzky is one of them.
He is now a deputy district attorney for Los Angeles
County and said his involvement in the youth panel in the
early 1980s was important for him. "It opens your eyes to
politics in a new way," he said. "You're almost an insider
seeing things. You're in City Hall. You see city
government work." The skills learned as members of a
youth council will serve young people well in whatever
endeavor they pursue, said Noemi Madrigal, a member of
the group in the early 1990s who now works with juveniles
for the California Department of Corrections and
Rehabilitation. "It made me much more of an assertive
person," Madrigal said. "I wasn't afraid to talk to people
and was able to stand up for the things I believed in."
42