Mayor Berkowitz Empowers Youth Through Public Service

Restarting Youth Commission will help grow next generation of Anchorage leaders

Mayor's Corner

10/27/2015

ANCHORAGE – Mayor Ethan Berkowitz announced today he will seek Assembly approval to restart the Anchorage Youth Advisory Commission. The 2015 Transition Team recommended resurrecting the commission as a way to increase diversity and community participation in municipal government.

“Young residents bring a fresh perspective, idealism, and vitality to civic duty,” stated Mayor Berkowitz. “Their voices make important contributions to the goal of making Anchorage a great city that reflects all our residents.”

The Youth Commission was initially created in 1995, but was discontinued in 2012. Mayor Berkowitz proposes a commission composed of 15 individuals, ranging in age from 14 to 22 and highlighting Anchorage’s unique diversity. The Assembly will consider an ordinance supporting the re-establishment of the commission at their regular meeting tonight.

“I am excited that the Mayor is reviving the Anchorage Youth Advisory Commission. It is vital that we engage young people in finding solutions to strengthen our community. This commission has the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective, creative ideas and new energy to existing challenges,” said Anchorage School Board President Kameron Perez-Verdia.

For more information, contact Myer Hutchinson at (907) 343-7133.

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