2025-51 Youth Commission

WHEREAS, in an effort to engage, educate, and empower the youth of our city by providing them with opportunities to learn about local government, participate in civic processes, and contribute to the development of youth-focused initiatives; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that Newport’s City Council hereby establishes a Youth Commission to serve as a communications link between young residents of the city and City Council, while fostering an educational and participatory experience in municipal governance; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Youth Commission will provide members with opportunities to learn about the City’s charter and ordinances, gain an understanding of City Council agendas and decision-making processes, and participate in a mentoring program that pairs students with City Council members; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Youth Commission shall be comprised of five young residents of Newport, who represent grades 8 through 12, AND two adult advisors, for a total of seven commission members, all of whom must submit an application and be appointed by the Council; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Commission shall hold a meeting at least once a month, that the Commission will have a Council liaison appointed to it, and that each student Youth Commission member will serve a term of one year; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Youth Commission will create a bylaws document detailing the purpose of the commission, the commission’s rules and regulations, goals and initiatives, and schedule of meetings; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Commission will submit an annual report to
the Council outlining its objectives, educational
activities, proposed youth programs, and updates on
initiatives undertaken throughout the year; AND BE IT
FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Council will annually recognize the members
of the Commission, who will receive a certification
for their participation in this initiative.

STEPHANIE SMYTH
XAY KHAMSYVORAVONG
DAVID R. CARLIN, III
JEANNE-MARIE NAPOLITANO
CHARLIE HOLDER
ELLEN PINNOCK

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MARCH 26, 2025

Laura C. Swistak, CMC
City Clerk