This program was started in 2005 with two participants. They were the Youth Representatives to the Beloit City Council. They brought a youth perspective that the City Council did not have in the past. In 2006, the group grew to two students from Beloit High School and two students from St. John's High School.
Seven students applied and were chosen in 2007. This group made up the first Youth Council. The group was made up of one sophomore and six juniors. Since the program runs on a calendar year, the group was made up of one junior and six seniors at the end of 2007.
The popularity of the Youth Council program grew in 2008. The number of applicants was far too many to accept everyone that applied. The 2007 Youth Council helped conduct and choose 8 Youth Councilors for 2008. However, the 2008 Youth Council is made up of a total of 9 Youth Councilors since one is returning from 2007.
The Youth Council members are:
Amber Engelbert,
Brad Ellenz,
Claire Thiessen,
Cody Hanel,
Grant Deneke,
Jacee Simmons,
Jessica Hake,
Kylie Miller,
Rachel Waddell,
The 2008 Youth Council has completed a mock election at both schools regarding a new Library being built. The ballot included a regular vote as well as what the youth would like to see in a new Library. Other projects planned for the year include: another mock election for President, a Haunted House, and A Day In The Life Of Beloit.
