The Garland City Council is poised to expand opportunities for local youth as discussions surrounding the Garland Youth Council (GYC) appointee selection process took center stage during the recent work session. The proposed changes aim to increase the number of student appointees from 18 to a potential 36, allowing each council member to select up to four students instead of the current two.

Recreation Supervisor Rhonda McTire presented the changes, highlighting a significant rise in applications—from 18 last year to 39 this year—demonstrating a growing interest among students in participating in local governance. The revisions to the code of ordinances would not only increase the number of appointees but also broaden eligibility to include all students attending Garland ISD schools, regardless of their residency.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the proposed changes, with Councilor Verduggen commending the efforts to engage more youth in city affairs. The council is expected to vote on these amendments in their upcoming meeting, with the aim of fostering greater youth involvement in local decision-making.

In addition to the increase in appointees, the proposed changes also seek to align the application process more closely with current practices, such as updating the language regarding application requirements and meeting frequency. This initiative reflects the council's commitment to enhancing youth participation and ensuring that the GYC remains a vibrant platform for student voices in Garland.

As the council prepares for the vote, the anticipated outcome could reshape the landscape of youth engagement in the city, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative youth council.