Title
Youth Council Update and Approval of the Proposed 2026 Youth Council Work Plan
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
At their January 2026 meeting the Youth Council approved their recommended 2026 Work plan. At the February 25, 2026 meeting of the Community Livability and Public Safety Committee members of the Youth Council presented their draft 2026 Work Plan, and it was approved to be forwarded to the full City Council for consideration.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update on the Youth Council.
Move to approve the Proposed 2026 Youth Council Work Plan.
Report
Issue:
Whether receive an update on the Youth Council and approve the Proposed 2026 Youth Council Work Plan.
Staff Contact:
Susan Grisham, Youth Council Liaison, 360.753.8441
Presenter(s):
Susan Grisham, Youth Council Liaison
Nolan O’Connell, Youth Council Co-Chair
Donovon Jojoba, Youth Council Co-Chair
Shruthi Lingam-Nattami, Youth Council Co-Vice Chair, Policy Subcommittee
Anika Parabakar, Youth Councilmember
Background and Analysis:
At its November 11, 2025 and January 21, 2026 meetings, the Olympia Youth Council discussed and approved its proposed 2026 Work Plan. The Work Plan includes briefings and discussions on topics identified by the Youth Council, including public safety, Olympia’s Sanctuary City status, youth mental health resources, and the availability of third places for youth.
The Youth Council is also planning a Youth Summit in partnership with the City of Lacey Youth Council and will produce a Public Service Announcement (PSA) encouraging youth to use public transportation in alignment with Intercity Transit’s upcoming system changes. In addition, members expressed interest in exploring how the City can improve communication of public policy to youth.
Climate Analysis:
This project is not expected to have an impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
Based on data from the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction's "Report Card", minority enrollment in Olympia's schools is at 40% and approximately 20% of students are economically disadvantaged. (This data does not include students who are not in traditional schools, like home school or G.E.D programs.) One of the main goals of a Youth Council is to engage and lift up voices and perspectives of people who are often excluded from decision making and lack access to power.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Youth in our community have expressed an interest in participating in decision making that effects their future.
Financial Impact:
$10,000 is allocated in the General Fund in support of the Youth Council.
Options:
1. Move to approve the proposed 2026 Youth Council Work Plan.
2. Move to approve the proposed 2026 Youth Council Work Plan with amendments.
3. Take other action.
Attachments:
Draft 2026 Work Plan
Presentation