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Two Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School (L-S) students made a compelling case for civic engagement this week, presenting a meticulously researched proposal to form a new Sudbury Youth Commission. Aiyana Allen and Lucy Immonen presented during the September 1 Select Board meeting and they drew high praise from members of the Select Board.
The proposal detailed the potential structure, community benefits, and goals of establishing a dedicated commission for Sudbury’s youth. The materials Allen and Immonen provided to the board included examples from other Massachusetts towns that have established youth commissions.
The students had been working with Select Board Member Lisa Kouchakdjian to formulate their proposal. Their thoroughness did not go unnoticed. All members indicated interest in either bringing the Youth Commission to life or exploring it further. (Materials start on page 46 below)
The proposed mission of the commission is “to engage the full Sudbury community by providing a platform for the future generation of leaders to be both represented and heard.” The proposed objectives included:
- Advise Town committees and municipal government on decisions and policies affecting the youth
- Promote civic engagement of the Town’s youth
- Implement change that betters the lives of the youth
- Provide a platform for the youth to share their perspectives with the Town
The timeline presented to the Select Board indicated the Youth Commission would orient a portion of its work around Town Meeting and taking positions on articles. However, they left room for the commission to set annual goals and priorities once formed.
Members of the Board noted that establishing a new municipal body requires some administrative groundwork. Before a formal vote can take place, the Board expressed a desire for town staff to investigate the logistical details necessary to make the endeavor both effective and legally sound. There was also discussion about the appropriate size and structure of the commission. No decisions were made.
Despite these procedural steps, the path forward looks positive for the proponents. Town staff will now begin looking into a viable framework based on the students’ proposal. Barring any unforeseen structural blockers or legal impediments, Chair Janie Dretler indicated the topic will be brought back at their September 29 meeting for further discussion, and that could potentially include a formal vote to form a Youth Commission.
The efforts of Allen and Immonen continues a legacy of civic engagement from L-S students. Earlier this year, they spoke in favor of solar canopy projects at the Annual Town Meeting, and the articles passed overwhelmingly. Last year, L-S students spoke passionately in favor of the a proposed renovation of the Atkinson Pool, and that article also passed overwhelmingly.
The presentation starts at 43:30 below.
