Logo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – The City of Citrus Heights is accepting applications through Friday, June 26 for a new Youth Advisory Commission.

The Youth Advisory Commission (YAC) will serve as an advisory body to the Citrus Heights City Council by giving valuable feedback on City projects and services which impact young people, according to Marisa Brown, city communications officer.

In February, the Citrus Heights City Council unanimously approved a recommendation to create a Youth Advisory Commission which will consist of 13 youth members.

Commissioners must commit to a one-year term (September through May) and may be reappointed for one additional consecutive term, for a maximum of two years, according to the city.

Attendance at monthly meetings and periodic City Council sessions is required to maintain active participation in the Youth Advisory Commission.

Interested students who are entering grades eight through 12 from public schools, charter schools, private schools, or who are homeschooled, and reside in the City of Citrus Heights are now eligible to apply.

“Citrus Heights is genuinely committed to creating real opportunities for young people to have a voice in shaping their community,” said Citrus Heights Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff in describing why eligible students should apply.

“The Youth Advisory Commission is more than a leadership experience. It’s a chance for students (in grades eight through 12) to share their ideas, learn how local government works and to help directly influence programs and services that impact their daily lives,” she said.

“I encourage students who passionately care about their community and want to make a real difference to apply and to become a part of this important work,” said Lopez-Taff.

Members of the new Youth Advisory Commission will advise the City Council and staff on specific policies, programs and initiatives which impact youth and provide meaningful recommendations which enhance youth engagement in civic life and community development.

In their general duties, commissioners will also directly participate in community projects and events while serving as ambassadors for City programs.

Additional roles and responsibilities include reviewing and commenting on proposed city ordinances or programs which affect youth, and to help identify and propose new youth-led initiatives which align with City priorities.

Commission members will also prepare and present an annual report summarizing activities, recommendations, and their accomplishments.

Members of the newly formed Youth Advisory Commission will not receive compensation for their participation by the city. An official swearing-in date of the commission has also not been set yet.

Applications are available online now at: www.citrusheights.net/1478/Youth-Advisory-Commission

Completed applications can be returned to the City Clerk by email to  [email protected] or in person at City Hall, 6360 Fountain Square Drive.

For more information, call 916-725-2448.