Nevada City, CA – The Nevada County Youth Commission is seeking new members for the upcoming school year, August 2026-June 2027.

The commission is looking for members ages 14-19 who live in Nevada County and/or are enrolled in a Nevada County school system. Commissioners serve a one-year term. There are 12 openings available.

Luca, Graham and Grant riding Nevada County Connects after securing free fares for youth Sept 2025
Luca, Graham and Grant riding Nevada County Connects after securing free fares for youth Sept 2025

“The Youth Commission is by far the best opportunity in all of Nevada County to make substantial change to the community in which we live, make invaluable connections with communities and leaders, and build the skills that will be necessary to bring change-makers in our future careers,” said current Youth Commission Chair Graham Gardemeyer.

The group serves as a bridge between local youth and the Board of Supervisors, identifying and advocating for issues affecting Nevada County youth.

In 2025, youth commissioners made their first formal policy recommendations to the Board of Supervisors and achieved a major win: free bus fares for youth ages 6-17. The proposal came from the commission’s Recreation Committee, led by youth commissioner Maura Griffin.

Truckee commissioners Rachelle Zarate Estefania Gaitan-Meza and Iratze Aguilar-Solorio woke before sunrise to travel to Nevada City and volunteer for the annual Christmas Elves project
Truckee commissioners Rachelle Zarate Estefania Gaitan-Meza and Iratze Aguilar-Solorio woke before sunrise to travel to Nevada City and volunteer for the annual Christmas Elves project

As chair, Gardemeyer presented the recommendation to the Board of Supervisors alongside County Transit Services staff. “It was awesome,” he said about the victory. “They were open to our comments, and they were grateful for the work we did.”

Board of Supervisors Chair Lisa Swarthout emphasizes the impact the Youth Commission has on improving County programs and outreach. “Our youth are our next generation of leaders.

Their work last year demonstrates the power of community involvement and shows how their voices can make a real difference,” she said.

The deadline to apply is Friday, April 17 and interviews will be scheduled for early May. The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to confirm the appointments in June.

Learn more at www.nevadacountyca.gov/youthcommission or email Jeff Dellis at jeff.dellis@nevadacountyca.gov.