The purpose of the Youth Council is to provide the resources and platform for the youth of our community to become engaged in city government and community.

Through the sponsorship of the Twin Falls City Council, a Youth Council is formed by students who are pursuing high school diplomas within the Twin Falls city limits. The organization will be created with the guidance of community leaders and the City Council. Members will be encouraged to participate in city meetings and community events.

Membership

With approval of the City Council and the student's parent/guardian, high school students attending any school within the Twin Falls city limits may apply for membership. High School aged students enrolled in home school programs are welcome to apply for membership.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be full-time high school student with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Home-schooled students may participate if they live within the city limits and qualify as high school students following the standards established by the Idaho State Board of Education
• Curiosity or interest in government, including: law enforcement, fire fighting, municipal finance, information technology, building safety, planning and zoning, water or wastewater systems, and elected offices
• Must be able to able to attend regular Twin Falls City Youth Council meetings.

Organizational Team

A team of City Council members, the mayor and other community leaders will participate in the initial activities to help establish the charter by-laws and provide counsel as needed. The Youth Council, with the support of the organizational team, will establish the by-laws and goals. Provisional student leadership will be chosen by the charter members, until such time as the first official election of officers is conducted under the initial by-laws.

Association of Idaho Cities Conference

The Association of Idaho Cities hosts an annual conference in June of each year. Members of the Youth Council may be invited to the conference. It will be one of the responsibilities of the Youth Council to plan and organize the travel, with the help of qualified chaperons.

Finances

The Youth Council will not require dues; however, it may initiate and organize approved fund raising activities for the support of the Youth Council goals. Youth Council finances will be accounted for by city staff. From time to time, the Youth Council may apply to the City Council during the city budget process for funding of programs under the Twin Falls City Municipal Powers Grant Process. Funding will be reviewed under the same criteria as any other organization and must be compatible with the city mission statement and strategic plan.

Student Development

Youth Council members are encouraged to attend city council and commission meetings, including: City Council, Parks & Recreation, Planning & Zoning, Traffic Safety, Tree Commission, Pool Commission, Animal Shelter Advisory Board, Library Board of Trustees, Airport Commission, Golf Advisory Council or Greater Twin Falls Transportation Committee.

Application form (PDF)