Last Thursday, students went to City Hall to have a taste of local government.  There students had a brief internship with government officials, stood in a mock council meeting, and had a lunch catered by El Ranchito.

Youth Council President Rupen Dajee said, concerning the success of this years program, “We had a lot more people this year. We spent the last couple months planning, but it was made possible by our dedicated city employees who worked tirelessly to ensure the youths continued involvment with the city government.”

Students got to see the officials in their work environment from balancing conflicting interests to helping the public. For example those in the building department got to work with the Chief Inspector and the Deputy Building Official. There they were able to see how a remodeled house is analyzed, and got the chance to tour the new construction sites at Fashion Island. They had the chance to visit the yet to be released Nordstrom Building, the new site replacing the fountain, and the new Forever 21, which replaces the former Circuit City.

The program  featured internships with city council members, the city manager, administrative services department, building department, city attorney office, the city clerk, the recreation and senior services, library services, fire/marine department, general services, planning department, police department, public works, and utilities.

“It was a valuable experiance. It enlightened me about many of the cities programs that I would have otherwise not known,” said Senior Paul Zubatov, who interned with the Fire Department.

If you missed it this year, look for it next year, or maybe join Youth Council.