During a recent city council meeting in Lacey, officials emphasized their commitment to acknowledging the historical significance of the land they occupy, which is the ancestral territory of the Nisqually Indian Tribe and the Squaxin Island Tribe. The council recognized the importance of remembering those tribal members who were absorbed or relocated for survival and reiterated their responsibility to highlight the histories of dispossession and treaty rights that have shaped the region.

Following this acknowledgment, the council moved to approve the agenda and previous meeting minutes, which was unanimously accepted. Public comments were invited but none were presented.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to introducing the new Lacey Youth Council, represented by Sadie Siglin, a management analyst in the city manager's office. Siglin outlined the council's structure, which includes up to 15 youth members from local schools, and their role as an advisory board to the city council. The youth council aims to engage young residents in civic matters, providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and participate in local governance.

The council has implemented various initiatives to enhance communication with youth, including the introduction of a social media coordinator to improve outreach. The youth council meets bi-monthly and reports directly to the city council, ensuring that the perspectives of young people are integrated into city planning and decision-making processes.

Siglin highlighted the council's successful community engagement efforts, including a youth summit and resource fair that provided valuable resources and networking opportunities for local youth. The council's activities are designed to foster a sense of community and encourage youth participation in civic life, addressing issues that matter to them.

The meeting concluded with a positive note on the integration of the youth council into city policy, with members expressing enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts between the youth and city officials. This initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring that the voices of Lacey's younger population are heard and considered in local governance.