Scottsdale's Mayor is taking the youth under its wing with a new initiative aimed at buffing up their knowledge of the democratic process. On April 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the Scottsdale Mayor’s Youth Council is set to host a Town Hall at Scottsdale Stadium, as detailed in a report from the city's official website.
In an age where political apathy seems to be the norm, the council is making its move with Maricopa County’s director of mail-in voting, Reynaldo Valenzuela, as the headliner. Valenzuela, whose experience in elections spans more than three decades, will articulate the significance of casting a ballot, the broader impact of such an act, and the ethos of service leadership, the city's announcement said.
"We were inspired to choose voter and civic engagement as this year's Town Hall topic," Nathan Cai, Youth Council President relayed through the city's report. "By collaborating with Maricopa County Elections, we aim to educate young people on the importance of interacting with local government – through voting and other avenues – from a non-partisan standpoint."
Targeting high-schoolers likely not yet of voting age, the town hall is a solid groundwork to ensure they are prepared and informed for when their time comes. According to Scottsdale's publication, Kristy Hahn-McDonald, the staff liaison, sees this assembly as a crucial chance for the youth to learn the ropes of their local government. The students, engaging with city leaders, also get their shot at contributing their voices to matters they are passionate about.
