Title
Approval of Youth Recommendations for Making Public Policy More Accessible
Recommended Action
Move to approve Youth Recommendations for Making Public Policy More Accessible
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve Youth Recommendations for Making Public Policy More Accessible.
Staff Contact:
Susan Grisham, Youth Council Liaison, 360.753.8441
Presenter(s):
Susan Grisham, Youth Council Liaison
Background and Analysis:
At the April 15, 2025 Youth Council meeting, Youth Councilmembers discussed what would make it easier for youth to understand and engage with public policy. This conversation was requested by the Youth Council because youth care about local issues but feel disconnected from how information is communicated.
Youth Council members identified several barriers that make it difficult for youth to participate in local government processes, including the use of technical language, limited awareness of opportunities for engagement, and communication methods that do not effectively reach younger audiences. Members also discussed the importance of creating more accessible, transparent, and youth-friendly ways to share information related to City decisions, policies, and community issues.
Based on this discussion, staff used their feedback to develop recommendations focused on improving accessibility, increasing outreach to youth, and strengthening opportunities for civic engagement. Approval of these recommendations would allow them to be forwarded to City leadership for consideration.
Climate Analysis:
The proposed recommendations are not anticipated to have a direct impact on the City’s climate goals. Increased public engagement and improved communication strategies may support broader community participation in future climate-related initiatives and decision-making processes.
Equity Analysis:
The recommendations support the City’s equity goals by seeking to improve access to public information and civic participation opportunities for youth and other community members who may face barriers to engagement. Enhancing accessibility and communication methods may help ensure a broader range of perspectives are included in local decision-making processes.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Youth Council members expressed interest in improving transparency and making local government processes easier for youth and community members to understand. Members noted that youth are interested in community issues but often do not know how to access information or participate in discussions and decision-making opportunities.
Financial Impact:
There is no immediate financial impact associated with approval of the recommendations. Future implementation of specific communication or outreach strategies may require staff time and/or additional resources.
Options:
1. Approve the Youth Recommendations for Making Public Policy More Accessible.
2. Approve the recommendations with modifications.
3. Do not approve the recommendations.
Attachments:
Draft Recommendations