Youth engagement took center stage at the Lakeville City Council Work Session on July 28, 2025, as members of the Youth Advisory Commission presented their year-end update. The commission, comprised of dedicated young leaders, highlighted their achievements and challenges over the past year, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and personal growth.

Commission members Olivia Schmidt, Fadumo Mohammed, and Addison Johnson shared insights into their experiences, noting the value of collaboration and skill development. They expressed a desire for improved communication within the group and suggested focusing on smaller community projects to enhance their impact. "We could use more communication in the group," said Schmidt, pointing out that clearer objectives could lead to more visible results.

The youth leaders also discussed their plans for future initiatives, including outreach to younger students in local elementary schools to inspire community involvement. However, they faced obstacles this past year, including difficulties in executing a major project due to scheduling conflicts with local schools. "Our original plan was to present to local schools, but that didn't work out," Johnson explained.

Council members acknowledged the challenges faced by the commission, particularly in maintaining attendance and engagement. They emphasized the need for clear expectations during recruitment to ensure new members understand the commitment involved. "It's important to communicate the time expectation clearly," noted one council member.

As the commission prepares for a new recruitment cycle in August, they aim to foster a deeper connection with the community and encourage more youth participation. The council expressed gratitude for the commission's dedication and looks forward to collaborating on future projects that resonate with Lakeville's youth.