City of Fort Walton Beach Re-establishes Youth Council

On June 8, 2021, the Fort Walton Beach City Council adopted a resolution to re-establish its Youth Council in order to provide an opportunity for the youth of Fort Walton Beach to participate in City government, take an active role in shaping the future of the City, and become leaders in the community. Applications are now being accepted.

“I am excited about this endeavor,” said Mayor Dick Rynearson. “Youth Councils are successful all across our state and even here in our county. This council will provide us an avenue for engagement with our young people that we’ve been missing. Our children are our future. We should listen to them.”

The City first established a Youth Council in 2007, however it was dissolved in 2009 because of lack of participation. The City’s recognition of students with Awards for Civic Excellence (ACE) has created a strong partnership between the City and local high schools in recent years. The Youth Council is not limited to students in the Okaloosa County School system. Any student in grades 10, 11 or 12 that lives within the city limits of Fort Walton Beach may apply.

In order to begin with the 2021-2022 school year, applications must be submitted no later than August 1. The Youth Council will be made up of eight members appointed by the Fort Walton Beach City Council and will meet on the first Tuesday of every month, excluding June, July, and August, at 4 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Fort Walton Beach City Hall.

All details about the Youth Council can be found in the application here.