The Prince George Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee convened on June 10, 2025, to discuss a proposed bill aimed at establishing a youth advisory program within the county. The legislation seeks to appoint two members aged 16 to 24 to each of the county's 56 boards and commissions, with certain exceptions noted in the bill.

During the meeting, Mr. Joel Peebles, the bill's drafter, highlighted the importance of the program in providing young people with opportunities to engage in local governance. The committee discussed amendments to the bill, including provisions for addressing absenteeism among appointees and clarifying which boards would be subject to the new requirements.

Mr. Williams from the Office of Budget and Policy indicated that the bill would have a minor adverse impact but raised questions regarding the voting rights of youth appointees and the suitability of certain boards for youth involvement. The committee members expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the value of youth perspectives in decision-making processes.

Council member DeNoga proposed amendments to ensure that all appointees, regardless of age, would be held accountable for attendance, addressing concerns about maintaining quorum in meetings. The discussion also included suggestions to refine the list of boards exempt from the youth advisory program, focusing on those that require specific expertise rather than advisory roles.

The committee ultimately voted in favor of the proposed amendments, with all members expressing their commitment to fostering youth engagement in local governance. The bill's passage is seen as a significant step toward empowering young voices in Prince George County, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity in civic participation.