During a recent government meeting, the Grand Rapids City Commission discussed the appointment of 27 students to the 2024-2025 Mayor's Youth Council (MYC), marking the council's 26th iteration since its inception in 1999. Zach Leroy, the program coordinator for the community's children, presented the candidates, all of whom are current high school students from grades 9 to 12. Each candidate has completed an application and interview process, confirming their residency in the city.

The new cohort includes representatives from all three city wards, with 11 students from the 1st ward, 7 from the 2nd, and 9 from the 3rd, spanning nine different high schools in the area. Leroy emphasized the council's mission to engage youth in local government functions and provide a platform for their voices on issues affecting their peers.

Commissioner Kelsey Perdue, a former MYC member, reflected on the growth of the council, noting that it has expanded significantly since her time, which featured only two representatives from each ward. The council will focus on community engagement, the electoral process, and will host the annual \"Kids Speak\" event in April 2025, aimed at amplifying youth perspectives.

The commission unanimously supported the motion to appoint the new members, highlighting the importance of fostering civic engagement among young residents.