Commission amends Youth Advisory Board rules to broaden HCISD eligibility and set age limits

On April 15 the Harlingen City Commission approved amendments to the Teen & Youth Advisory Board ordinance intended to increase participation and clarify expectations for members.

Commissioner Pettis explained the main change would expand eligibility beyond strict city residency to students who reside within the geographic boundaries of Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD), allowing broader representation from area youth who attend district schools. Pettis also proposed lowering the upper age limit to 18 so membership stays within the high‑school student population; commissioners discussed making applicants enrolled in high school the criterion.

Other amendments include a requirement for the board to present an annual report to the commission summarizing activities and recommendations, a participation/volunteer expectation (members should volunteer at least one city‑sponsored event per year), and attendance rules with excused absence standards to be determined by appropriate staff.

Commissioners approved the ordinance amendments subject to legal review and appointed Dana (Donna) Bacta to the Youth Advisory Board; commissioners asked that additional student appointments be ready at the next meeting so the board can begin work soon.