Youth Commission

The City of Ridgefield Youth Commission provides young residents with a meaningful way to engage in local government, share their perspectives and help shape the future of our community. The Commission advises the City Council and staff on issues affecting youth and develops projects that benefit the entire community.

The Youth Commission researches assigned topics by working with experts and engaging with Ridgefield youth to gather input and perspectives. Members collaborate to share ideas, develop recommendations, and prepare reports that are presented to the City Council. 

In addition to advising on issues important to young people and offering suggestions to strengthen partnerships with youth, Commissioners represent the group in the community, schools, and youth organizations to raise awareness. They also encourage civic engagement among their peers and provide regular updates to Council on the Commission’s activities.

2025-2026 Topic: E-Bikes, E-Scooters, E-MiniMotorcycles

E-Bikes are becoming increasingly popular, especially among teens and young adults. This popularity has come with increased number of accidents, near-misses and safety concerns. To give these youth a voice in shaping solutions, E-Bikes will be the first project topic for the Youth Commission.

This work will include:

  • Research risks and benefits.
  • Discuss possible regulations and/or licensing.
  • Consider implementation of safety requirements, e.g., helmets.
  • Discuss road rules and riding locations.

Youth Commission Eligibility

At the time of application, members must:

  • Be enrolled in school within the Ridgefield School District, OR live in the Ridgefield Urban Growth Area and attend a different educational program (another district, private school or homeschool).
  • Be in or entering grades 8-12, or the equivalent age if not in a traditional program.

Students must be enrolled in their education program while serving on the commission. Students anticipating graduation prior to end of term are still encouraged to apply.

Documents

  1. Ord. 1458 - Ridgefield Youth Commission (PDF)
  2. Youth Commission Presentation 9.25.25 (PDF)

Members

PositionMember NameTerm Expires
Voting MemberAJ TrethewaySeptember 30, 2026
AlternateAudrey ReidSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Behla JamesSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Connor RappSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Easton QuastSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Elizabeth IbarraSeptember 30, 2026
Voting MemberJosie HicksSeptember 30, 2026
AlternateKerington HagenSeptember 30, 2026
AlternateKinnley VeitenheimerSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Liam ManningSeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Ocoee FeySeptember 30, 2026
Voting Member
Zander EarlSeptember 30, 2026


Overview

The Ridgefield Youth Commission is a youth-driven advisory board and leadership program that provides a vital youth-oriented perspective on community issues. Commissioners gain skills in presentation, collaboration, leadership, research, and decision-making while learning how local government works and creating the changes they want to see in the City. Members explore community issues, help build a strong, inclusive, and active community, and ensure that youth perspectives are integrated into City decision-making.

The Mayor appoints, and the City Council confirms, nine members plus up to three alternates, all serving one-year terms from October 1 to September 30. Members select a Chair and Vice-Chair to serve one-year leadership terms, and together with City staff, determine the meeting schedule.

City Council assigns a topic of interest to the Ridgefield community, and Youth Commission members conduct research, engage with peers, and work with experts to develop recommendations, which are presented in a report to Council. By participating, youth build connections with adults and community organizations, gain valuable leadership experience, and develop the skills and civic engagement that encourage lifelong involvement in their community.

If you have questions about the Youth Commission, please contact City Hall, 360-887-3557.