The Park Ridge Youth Commission met Aug. 25 to introduce new student commissioners.
Here are the meeting's minutes, as provided by the commission:.
Park Ridge Youth Commission is located at 505 Butler Place, Park Ridge
CITY OF PARK RIDGE
M I N U T E S
YOUTH COMMISSION
CITY HALL SECOND FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM
505 BUTLER PLACE
PARK RIDGE, IL 60068
THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 AT 6:00 PM
Members Present: Commissioners: Alderman John Moran, Claire Griebler, Bobby Pierobon, Jared Skiba and Leslie Wolf. Student Commissioners: Evan Arnold, Zach Arnold, Katelyn Kahn, Kamila Kazimierczuk, Emily Krischke, Ewelina Laczak, James Shaughnessy, Patrick Shaughnessy and Sarah Zawadzka
Members Absent: Commissioners: Joan Mattingly and Eileen Sergo. Student Commissioner: Natalie Wajda
Also Present: Officer Ben Peterson - Park Ridge Police Department, Maura Hart, Shea O’Sullivan, Mary Frances Sheffert, Gabby Vas and Brigid Madden
I. Non-Member Alderman Wishing to be Heard on Non-Agenda Items
None.
II. Citizens Wishing to be Heard on Non-Agenda Items
None.
III. Action Items
A. Approve Minutes from the May 12, 2016 Meeting
On a motion by Commissioner Moran, seconded by Commissioner Skiba, the Commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 12, 2016 meeting.
The motion was approved unanimously by voice vote.
B. Approve Minutes from the June 23, 2016 Meeting
On a motion by Commissioner Moran, seconded by Commissioner Shaughnessy, the Commission voted to approve the minutes from the June 23, 2016 meeting.
The motion was approved unanimously by voice vote.
IV. Discussion Items
A. Introduction of New Student Commissioners
Alderman Moran provided background about the Youth Commission and meeting procedures. He explained the importance of meeting attendance to and notifying the staff liaison if unable to attend.
Brigid Madden explained that students who have not been interviewed by Mayor’s Advisory Board are scheduled for interviews on Monday, September 12th. She also informed new Commissioners of the Open Meetings Act training which is required and must be completed within 90 day of their appointment to the Youth Commission.
B. Recap of Summer Events
1. Live and Loud
Commissioner Skiba explained that overall the event was great; all of the organizations involved were happy. He explained that there was a problem with power for the equipment. A large number of students were at the Library.
Commissioner Skiba explained that an announcement from the Taste stages would help drive students to Hodges Park.
Commissioner Griebler stated that she can reserve the Library Lawn for future events.
2. National Night Out
Officer Peterson explained that the event takes place annually on the first Tuesday of August. Student Commissioners J. Shaughnessy and P. Shaughnessy volunteered at the YC table. Officer Peterson stated that the donut eating contest drew in a number of people and Alderman Moran suggested that the YC sponsor the contest next year.
Student Commissioner Zawadzka suggested that marketing be improved for YC events. The Commissioners discussed options to increase awareness. A Snapchat filter was suggested. The students explained Snapchat to the adult Commissioners. Commissioner Kahn knows someone who can design filters; she will reach out.
3. Library Speaker Series
Commissioner Griebler reviewed the topics from the three events. She explained that the notes from the presenters were all positive. She was impressed with the turnout as well. The Commissioners discussed inviting back college students and former YC members for a panel discussion in the summer.
C. 2016 - 2017 Calendar of Events
The Commissioners discussed possible fall events. Alderman Moran suggested a speaker at the Library. Commissioner Skiba explained that the YC has hosted a movie at the Pickwick in the past. The Youth Commission also hosts an annual dodgeball tournament.
Commissioner Zawadzka suggested that additional sports be considered for a tournament. Commissioner Skiba explained that the reason for a dodgeball tournament is because it is not offered by schools or intramurals; it is a “playground game.”
Commissioner Kahn suggested manning a table at the Maine South Football games to promote fall events. She explained that not only will students learn more about the events, but many parents are in attendance as well.
Alderman Moran suggested hosting a movie night the weekend after winter finals.
Gabby Vos explained that in the fall, students hang out Uptown and perhaps that would be a better time for the movie. She suggested hosting a “movie in the park.”
There was a consensus to move forward with planning an outdoor movie night.
Alderman Moran asked the students their opinions on a sports event. The students suggested a number of different sports and activities, and there was a consensus that a “Field Day” consisting of multiple events would be best.
Alderman Moran introduced the Gear for Goals program. Commissioner Skiba discussed the importance of continued enthusiasm and participation from the students.
Alderman Moran explained that the students should bring forward formalized agenda items which the YC can take action on.
Shea O’Sullivan suggested promoting events in ways other than posters in the schools. Utilizing the morning announcements was suggested.
V. Administration Report
A. Updated Budget Report
The current account balance is $7,847.73.
B. Receipts
Commissioner Pierobon turned in a receipt for $1,000 from the sound company used at the Live and Loud Concert. The Park District has paid the invoice and the YC will be reimbursing them.
VI. New Business
VII. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:57pm.