Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Orange
This addresses the longstanding complaint of Orange leadership being compared to musical chairs with the “Old Guard”.
One of the responsibilities of local government is not just managing the present, but preparing for the future. The decisions we make today regarding housing, parks, public safety, transportation, and economic development will shape the Orange that the next generation inherits.
That’s why I believe we should formally include young residents in the civic conversation.
If elected, I intend to propose the creation of a City of Orange Youth Advisory Committee.
Why This Matters
The City of Orange already does an excellent job fostering youth involvement through programs like the Police Explorer Program and Fire Cadets, which introduce young residents to careers in public safety.
But civic leadership is just as important.
A Youth Advisory Committee would help nurture the next generation of community leaders, volunteers, and public servants by giving them a seat at the table with an opportunity to learn how local government works and provide input on issues affecting young people in our city.
After all, many of the decisions we make today are ultimately in the interest of the next generation.
How the Committee Would Work
The structure of the committee would be simple and designed to require minimal city resources.
The committee would consist of seven members between the ages of 18 and 24.
Appointments would be made as follows:
One member appointed by each City Councilmember
One member appointed by the Mayor
Each member would serve a one-year term and may be reappointed.
To ensure accessibility and efficiency, meetings would be held primarily online, reducing the need for city facilities or staff time while allowing participation from students, young professionals, and others with busy schedules.
The Role of the Committee
The Youth Advisory Committee would serve as a voice for younger residents and a bridge between the next generation and City Hall.
Members could:
Provide recommendations to the City Council on issues affecting youth
Encourage civic engagement and participation among young residents
Identify ways the city can better serve younger members of the community
Promote leadership and community service
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders
Cities thrive when residents feel connected to their community and invested in its future. By creating opportunities for young people to participate in civic life early, we help cultivate future leaders who understand the importance of service, responsibility, and community engagement.
Police Explorers help build future officers. Fire Cadets help build future firefighters.
A Youth Advisory Committee can help build the future civic leaders of Orange.
Because ultimately, the work we do today is not just for ourselves; it is for the generation that comes next.
Below is a Draft Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. ____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ORANGE ESTABLISHING A YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE
WHEREAS,
The City Council of the City of Orange recognizes the importance of civic engagement and leadership development among young residents of the community; and
WHEREAS,
The future of the City of Orange depends on the participation, ideas, and leadership of the next generation; and
WHEREAS,
The City currently provides youth engagement opportunities through programs such as the Police Explorer Program and Fire Cadet Program; and
WHEREAS,
The City Council desires to expand opportunities for youth participation in civic affairs by establishing a Youth Advisory Committee to provide input and recommendations on issues affecting young residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Orange as follows:
SECTION 1. Establishment
The City Council hereby establishes the City of Orange Youth Advisory Committee.
SECTION 2. Purpose
The Youth Advisory Committee shall serve as an advisory body to the City Council and may provide input and recommendations on matters affecting youth, civic engagement, community development, and the future of the City of Orange.
SECTION 3. Membership
The Youth Advisory Committee shall consist of seven (7) members, appointed as follows:
One member appointed by each City Councilmember, and
One member appointed by the Mayor
Members shall:
Be between the ages of eighteen (18) and twenty-four (24) at the time of appointment
Be residents of the City of Orange
SECTION 4. Terms
Members shall serve one-year terms and may be reappointed at the discretion of the appointing City Councilmember or Mayor.
SECTION 5. Meetings
The Youth Advisory Committee shall meet periodically as needed, with meetings conducted primarily in a virtual format in order to minimize the use of City resources.
SECTION 6. Duties
The Youth Advisory Committee may:
Provide recommendations to the City Council regarding issues affecting youth in the City of Orange
Encourage civic participation among young residents
Identify opportunities for youth involvement in community programs and initiatives
Promote leadership development and civic awareness among younger residents of the City
SECTION 7. Staff Support
Administrative coordination for the Youth Advisory Committee shall be provided by the City Manager’s Office or another department as designated by the City Manager, with the goal of maintaining minimal impact on City resources.
ADOPTED this ____ day of ____________, 2027.
Mayor, City of Orange
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney