Youth council to review and update strategic plan; members to find latest document before July meeting

Advisors told the Cape Coral Youth Council that the copy of the strategic plan provided in the meeting materials appears to be an older version and that members should locate and review the most recent document before the July meeting.

Advisor Hayden led the discussion and asked members whether they wanted to make immediate changes to responsibilities and strategic initiatives or wait until a fuller membership could weigh in. Several members noted the version in the packet still listed officers from two years ago and likely lacked updated demographic and environmental data. One member suggested waiting until absent members could participate; another recommended assigning sections now and returning with proposed edits.

Why it matters: The strategic plan frames the council’s priorities and assignments (outreach, fundraising, communications and projects). Members said adding specific demographic data and clarifying who is responsible for particular initiatives will make the plan more actionable for future councils.

Key points: Advisor Hayden recommended that members prepare to add specifics to the geographic and demographic sections (first- and second-ring population data and impacts on the council’s target age group). The council agreed to search for and share the most recent draft; staff was asked to locate any version previously submitted for upload. The item was placed on the July agenda for detailed review.

Next steps: Staff and members will locate the most current strategic plan draft; members should review it and come prepared to assign responsibilities and update demographic data at the July 11 meeting.