What is the Mayor’s Youth Council?
Mayor Bill White has renewed the Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC) started in 1998. The mission of the MYC provides high school students the opportunity to develop leadership and citizenship skills while learning about city government. The MYC is modeled after the elected City Council with a Chair, City Secretary, At-Large and District Council Members. There are also Senior Aide positions to support the work of the council.

What does the Mayor’s Youth Council Do?
Mayor Bill White renewed the Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC) that started in 1998. The mission of the MYC provides high school students the opportunity to develop leadership and citizenship skills while learning about city government. The MYC is modeled after the elected City Council with a Chair, City Secretary, At-Large and District Council Members. There are also Senior Aide positions to support the work of the council. The MYC meets twice a month in public sessions. The regular Council meeting is held in the City Council Chambers, located at the City Hall Annex in Downtown Houston. Meetings are usually on Tuesday and begin at 6:30 p.m. The Town Hall meetings are generally held on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and are usually held in a participating Member high school. All meetings are open to the general public and Council Meetings are televised by the city’s channel, Houston TV.  Youth Council Members also participate in various community service projects and special events throughout the year. Please take a look at our Calendar of Events found under the “News & Events” section to find dates, times and locations.  However, it would best to call the office to confirm before attending.

Why should I get involved?
Youth Council members develop a sense of personal growth and achievement, a profound understanding of city departments and a rapport with community leaders, citizens and elected officials. Members are called upon to help make decisions affecting Houston’s youth as well as participate in numerous activities throughout the year.

How do I qualify?
Applicants must be a high school student that resides in or attends school in the City of Houston, generally between the ages of fourteen (14) and eighteen (18) years of age, demonstrates strong interests in gaining knowledge about city government and promoting discussion on youth-related issues, shows excellent abilities in organizing and presenting information, and works well with young people from a variety of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

How do I get selected?
Interested students should complete an application form, available online in  May and must be submitted  by the September deadline. A selection committee will review the applications in September and interview final candidates. Individuals who have a strong interest in city government and a commitment of time and effort will be given preference.