Powell River youth had the opportunity to become involved with local government on Tuesday, November 17, when the city’s committee of the whole meeting came to the Max Cameron Theatre at Brooks Secondary School.
Students made presentations and were able to ask council questions about a wide range of issues facing the city, including recreation needs.
“I’m thoroughly impressed with what the students have brought forward,” said mayor Dave Formosa.
Senior high school students who participated in the youth section of the expanded regional recreation survey presented their findings. The explained how Powell River youth feel about current opportunities to participate in recreational activities and what they would like to see as future priorities.
Carolyn Smith, one of five student presenters, told council that students would like to see improved public transit, more bike lanes, fun youth activities, dedicated youth space at Powell River Recreation Complex, updates to the beach volleyball courts and larger running events in Powell River, among others.
The students identified that youth enjoy the easy access to Powell River’s trails and lakes, cultural events like International Choral Kathaumixw and the new track, though more bleachers are needed to handle larger track and field events like the BC Summer Games.
Students also told council they would like to have more community-organized trips to Mount Washington, more concerts inside Evergreen Theatre and outside at city parks and climbing walls at the complex for a variety of skill levels.
Also, grade eight students Chase Brown and Pavan Narayan presented to the council on their recent trip to Vancouver to participate in the BC Lions’ high school violence against women initiative, Be More than a Bystander.
After the student presentations, council discussed the creation of a youth council, similar to that initiated by the City of Edmonton.
Councillor Russell Brewer said a youth council could provide feedback and ideas to the city on issues that concern youth.
