A new Resolution is expected to be presented to Council at the December 11th Council Meeting, in order to better define the Junior Councilperson Program (JCP).

There is an applicant for the JCP awaiting Council approval and that will likely be addressed at the next Council meeting, as well.

With the last election cycle now concluded, I believe the opportunity for a Junior Councilperson (JC), to learn about local government, should be offered to this applicant. Council has some noteworthy projects being started and applied for. It will be a great learning experience without the unnecessary diversions of an election year.

The Junior Councilperson Program is a statewide program that was started in 1999 with the belief that the outreach of both the community to the youth and the youth to the community can build boroughs toward the future. The Junior Councilperson Program has been successful across the state, allowing many high school and college students the opportunity to learn the structure and procedures of local government.

Many went on to be elected by their communities to serve on Council when they reached voting age.

With any luck, the Junior Councilperson will decide to run against me in 4 years and I will concede the election. If I get more votes than they get, I’ll demand a recount.

How does the Junior Councilperson Program work?

• Priority is given to Borough Residents
• May be a High School or College Student
• Selected applicant takes a “Junior Councilperson Pledge”
• JCs can serve a one or two-year term (As decided by Council)
• One or more Junior Councilpersons may be appointed
• JCs can attend monthly borough council meetings, budget sessions, committee meetings, and other “special” meetings as appropriate
• The JC is seated with the council and may actively participate in discussions
• Must observe all borough council meeting rules
• May attend some meetings with borough

The Junior Councilperson can NOT:

• Vote
• Attend “Executive” Sessions