Each Sunday we will feature a project going on within the city, happenings within a department or someone or agency which works hard to provide services to the community. This week we announce the reformation of the Portage Youth Commission.
You are never too young to have a voice in the community in which you live.
To foster young voices, Mayor Sue Lynch will be relaunching the Portage Youth Commission beginning in August.
PYC was first created by former Mayor Doug Olson and continued through former Mayor Olga Velazquez' administration. However, the commission was disbanded some eight years ago.
Lynch has been working with the Portage Township Schools to resurrect the commission.
The PYC's mission is to provide an opportunity for youth to have a formal role in the city's decision making through a representative commission that addresses youth issues to improve the quality of life.
In the past, the commission created ordinances which were presented to the full council. They held events ranging from a pet parade to diversity festival to hosting a water conservation seminar. They also coordinated the annual leaf raking program for the city's senior and disabled populations.
The city is looking for a few teens looking to be involved and express their views on how to make the city better and how to provide activities for their peers.
The committee is made up of 15 teens. They must be residents of Portage and be in grades 8 through 12.
The PYC will meet monthly to provide a forum for young people in the city to voice their opinions and ideas. They will be charged with addressing issues to improve the quality of life for the youth within the city and make recommendations to the city as appropriate concerning youth issues.
Applications will be available at the beginning of the next school year at both middle schools, Portage High School and Portage City Hall. Members will be chosen by Mayor Lynch.
For more information on the commission, contact Mayor Lynch's Administrative Assistant Normal Laboy at 219-762-5425.
