FAQs • Northampton, MA • CivicEngage

What types of things has the Youth Commission been involved in?: Initiative to lowering the municipal voting age (Vote16) (2021); Drafted and introduced a revised plastics ordinance, 'Plastic Reduction & Sustainability Ordinance' (2019-2020); No Hate Space Anti-Bullying Assemblies at Northampton High School (2011); Support Letter for Lilly Library's Young Adult Program (2011); Main Event Teen Center Benefit Concert (2007); Mayors Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage (2006); Holiday Giving (2006); Youth Commission Radio Show (current); Northampton Public Access Television (2005); Art benches in downtown Northampton (2005); Bridge the Gap Concert to fundraise for Senior Center (August 2004); Opposition to the Northampton Noise Ordinance Youth Summit (January 2004)

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Youth Commission

1. How did the Youth Commission start?: The Northampton Youth Commission first met in September of 2001 when a group of ambitious teenage residents of Northampton approached Mayor Mary Clare Higgins with the idea of creating a special commission. The goal of the organization was to give youth their own voice in city politics, a voice that without the presence of the Youth Commission was all too often dismissed or ignored.

2. What types of things has the Youth Commission been involved in?: Initiative to lowering the municipal voting age (Vote16) (2021); Drafted and introduced a revised plastics ordinance, 'Plastic Reduction & Sustainability Ordinance' (2019-2020); No Hate Space Anti-Bullying Assemblies at Northampton High School (2011); Support Letter for Lilly Library's Young Adult Program (2011); Main Event Teen Center Benefit Concert (2007); Mayors Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage (2006); Holiday Giving (2006); Youth Commission Radio Show (current); Northampton Public Access Television (2005); Art benches in downtown Northampton (2005); Bridge the Gap Concert to fundraise for Senior Center (August 2004); Opposition to the Northampton Noise Ordinance Youth Summit (January 2004)

3. When and where does the Commission meet? Can anyone attend?: The Youth Commission meets in the Hearing Room in City Hall at 7 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of every month (but not on legal holidays) during the school year. The meetings are open and the public is welcome.

4. How can I become a member? What are the qualifications?: To be a member of the Youth Commission, you must be between the ages of 13-18 and be a legal resident of Northampton. It is recommended that you attend at least one meeting before signing up to be a member. You can also ask about signing up at the meeting.