Joint Special
Council/Successor Agency
04/7/26 05:30 PM
City Clerk / Records
Maribel Hernandez
Presentation
Doc ID: 6349
AGENDA ITEM
AGENDA MATTER:
DISCUSSION REGARDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A BARSTOW YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Mayor has requested that the City Council consider the formation of a Barstow Youth Advisory Council. The purpose of this item is to initiate discussion and receive direction on whether to establish a youth-focused advisory body that would provide input on matters affecting youth in the community, encourage civic engagement, and foster leadership development among Barstow’s younger residents.
DISCUSSION:
The establishment of a Youth Advisory Council is a common practice among municipalities seeking to increase youth participation in local government and community initiatives. Such councils are typically composed of middle school and high school students who serve as representatives of the youth population.
A Barstow Youth Advisory Council could serve several functions, including:
· Providing input and recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on youth-related programs, policies, and community issues
· Assisting with community events, volunteer efforts, and civic initiatives · Promoting leadership development, civic responsibility, and public service among youth · Serving as a communication bridge between the City and the youth community Should the City Council wish to proceed, several policy considerations will need to be addressed, including:
· Membership Criteria: Age range, residency requirements, school representation, and application/selection process
· Structure: Number of members, term lengths, leadership roles, and staff liaison support · Meeting Schedule: Frequency and format of meetings, including compliance with the Brown Act · Oversight: Identification of a department or staff member to coordinate and support the program The Mayor and Council, may provide direction to staff on whether to proceed with developing a formal framework, including draft bylaws, application materials, and an implementation timeline.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no immediate fiscal impact associated at this time as this is a discussion item.
Joint Special
Council/Successor Agency
04/7/26 05:30 PM
City Clerk / Records
Maribel Hernandez
Presentation
Doc ID: 6349
AGENDA ITEM
If established, minimal costs may be associated with staff coordination, materials, and program support.
Any future fiscal impacts would be brought forward for Council consideration during the implementation phase.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
That the Mayor and City Council discuss and provide direction regarding the potential creation of a Barstow Youth Advisory Council, including its purpose, structure, and implementation.