Ridgeland forming youth council

RIDGELAND – The city has announced the launch of the inaugural Mayor’s Youth Council. 

This program aims to engage local high school students in municipal government and civic leadership, Mayor Gene McGee said. 

"It is exciting to get our youth involved in city government. I look forward to meeting and working with the council to address important issues and bring fresh perspectives,” McGee said. "This program will help develop their leadership and citizenship skills while providing valuable insights into municipal government."

This new initiative will replace the Chamber of Commerce's Jr. Diplomat Program and will aim to give students a deeper understanding of how local government functions and impacts everyday life.

Participants in the Mayor’s Youth Council will have the opportunity to meet and work closely with Mayor McGee, the Board of Aldermen, department heads, City employees, and representatives from various schools, according to Program Coordinator Lisa Walters. 

Walters described the program as “hands-on.”

She said students will learn about the inner workings of city government and public service responsibilities.

"Mayor McGee feels very strongly that students should be familiar with all facets of local government," Walters said. "This experience may even inspire some to pursue careers in public policy or politics.”

The application process is now open for Ridgeland residents who are in the elventh or twelfth grades with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must also be able to attend monthly meetings and complete volunteer hours as part of their commitment to the program. 

The deadline to apply is September 13.

For more information or to obtain an application, please contact Lisa Walters at 601-856-7113 or lisa.walters@ridgelandms.org.