City Council Youth Liaison Program

About

Youth Liaisons act as a vital bridge between the Sequim City Council and the youth in our community. Though nonvoting advisory members, they represent the interests and perspectives of youth and contribute valuable insights and recommendations to Council discussions. Youth Liaisons facilitate a two-way flow of information, keeping the Council apprised of youth-related events and concerns while encouraging active engagement of youth in local governance. By fostering communication, educational outreach, and a sense of civic responsibility, Youth Liaisons play a crucial role in strengthening the connection between the City Council and the younger generation, ensuring their voices are heard in civic matters.

On September 26, 2022, the City Council approved Resolution 2022-013 establishing an updated Youth Liaison Program. On October 28, 2024, the City Council expanded the number of Youth Liaisons from two to three by Resolution 2024-030. Each year, City Staff work with Sequim High School staff to help recruit youth applicants interested in applying for the program.

Qualifications and Appointment 

Applicants can be public or home-schooled students and must reside within the Sequim School District boundary. Applicants must be the equivalent grade level of a high school junior or senior. 

Students wishing to serve can apply by completing the Sequim City Council Youth Liaison Application. The City Council will review applications, conduct interviews, and select candidates for appointment. Appointment will be subject to City Council majority approval. Up to three Youth Liaisons may be appointed to serve at any time.

Term of Office

The Youth Liaison term on the City Council shall run consistent with the school year term, typically September through June. Due to varying schedules and timing, it is understood that Youth Liaisons may be appointed at any point during the prescribed term. Youth Liaisons may have the opportunity to serve for a total of two terms, provided they remain a high-school level student, reapply for a second term, and are reappointed by the City Council.  

Duties & Responsibilities

Youth Liaisons will:

  • Serve as a liaison between the City Council and the high school on matters related to youth in the community.
  • Be seated with the City Council during their meetings and encouraged to participate in discussions on issues before the Council. 
  • Comply with all the provisions in the Youth Liaison Program Guidelines.
  • Sign the Code of Conduct and complete the required training.
  • Attend each City Council Meeting, either in person or remotely, or provide advanced notice of their absence and request to be excused. 
  • Not cast a vote on any motions before City Council. 
  • Not attend Executive Sessions or Closed Sessions of City Council.
  • Use a City-provided email address for communication with the City Staff and Council members and commit to receiving and responding to emails and phone calls. 
  • Commit to not using text messaging on their personal devices for any City-related business. 
  • Encourage youth in the community to provide public comments to the City Council on matters of interest to them.   

Reference Documents:

If you have additional questions, please contact the City Clerk at clerk@sequimwa.gov or (360) 681-3428.