Youth Commission

Regular Meeting

Arlington Heights, IL · August 28, 2025

Minutes

Minutes Youth Commission Village Hall, Commissions Room 33 S. Arlington Heights Rd. August 28, 2025 6:00 PM I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Son called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. All stood for the Pledge of Allegiance. II. ROLL CALL Present Also Present Alice Son, Chair Mila Tsagalis, Liaison Matt Healy Kimberly Witt, Administrative Assistant Taryn Holdman Keith Mowens Afroz Hafeez Absent Jennifer Borrell Alejandria Galarza Colin Smith Aleena Patel Riley Phillips Ava McQuade Maria Georgakopoulas Christopher Wong Chair Son introduced the new Liaison, Mila Tsagalis. Chair Son also noted that the new Commissioner Alejandria Galarza, was unable to attend. All attendees introduced themselves. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Minutes from May 15, 2025 A motion was made by Commissioner Hong to approve the minutes of the May 15, 2025 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Smith and approved by unanimous consent. 1 IV. REPORTS A. Library Chair Son reported on the library’s summer reading program, noting that this year had one of the highest registration numbers since post-COVID. Many children and teens participated and collected prizes. She shared that the library will begin monthly Tinker Days at District 214 schools, with the first event scheduled for next week at Prospect High School. Commissioners were invited to stop by during lunchtime. Chair Son also announced the upcoming College Knowledge Program, “Strategies for a Smarter Search,” scheduled for Saturday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m. at the library. The program is designed for high school students to help them explore and identify their best- fit college. Commissioners were encouraged to spread the word to interested students. B. Park District Commissioner Healy reported that the summer season has ended, except for Pioneer Park’s pool, which remains open due to the closure of The Ridge Center indoor pool for construction until at least October 2. He noted that the Recreation Pool is also closed for renovations, resulting in two major projects underway at the same time. He shared that the Park District is planning fall events and preparing the winter guide. There are open positions available, and those interested can reach out to him directly for connections. Commissioner Healy added that they look forward to collaborating with the library on the preschool event in February and the Teen Job Fair in March. Chair Son noted that the new Recreation Park playground now features a Story Walk, which allows families to enjoy a picture book while visiting the playground. C. Police Department Commissioner Holdman reported that the summer season is wrapping up and the students are back in school. School Resource Officers are visiting schools and reminding parents about child safety and importance of being mindful of information shared on social media. D. Schools No report. E. Members at Large Commissioners Hong and Georgakopoulas from Buffalo Grove High School reported that students are adjusting to being back in school and fall activities have begun. They noted ongoing construction, including the removal of tennis courts to create new fields for soccer and lacrosse. The construction has affected parking, and the school community is working to manage the situation. They added that there are more clubs this year compared to last year, and the first football game is scheduled for Friday against Hoffman Estates. 2 Commissioners Phillips and Gala reported that students are happy to be back at school. Back-to-school activities included assemblies and school spirit events. Fall sports have begun, and benchmark testing and club rush were completed. Last week was Safety Week, during which all drills were practiced. Tomorrow is the first football game against Stevenson. Commissioner Smith reported that St. Viator has a new Principal. Several changes have been implemented, including a revised schedule that provides an hour and a half in the middle of the day for lunch, club meetings, homeroom, and intramurals, though it adds ten extra minutes to the school day. The first football game is against Marian Catholic. Commissioner Borrell stated it was nice to see everyone at the meeting. V. OLD BUSINESS A. Social Media Proposal Chair Son noted that the next step is to schedule a time for Commissioners McQuade and Smith to meet with Avis Meade, Communications and Outreach Manager for the Village, to present the proposal. Commissioner Smith provided an overview of the proposal to new members, which involves creating an Instagram account for the Youth Commission to manage and use to promote events to the youth of Arlington Heights. Ms. Tsagalis reported that she briefly discussed the proposal with Ms. Meade, who suggested the possibility of “takeover days,” during which the Youth Commission could post content on the Village’s Instagram page. Ms. Meade will review the pros and cons of the Commission having its own account while also exploring opportunities to enhance the Village’s page, gather feedback from younger audiences, and identify ways to improve the Village’s social media presence. Ms. Tsagalis will facilitate the meeting between the Commissioners and Ms. Meade. B. Lawn Mowing Referral Program Chair Son noted that there was limited promotion of the program over the summer following the Teen Job Fair and that she did not have numbers to report at this meeting. She also mentioned that the Snow Shoveling Referral Program will be starting soon and will likely be discussed at the next meeting. There was discussion about adding a raking/yard clean-up program. Chair Son suggested having one application for all referral programs so teens would only need to complete it once. Feedback was positive, as this approach would save time and could encourage more teens to apply. It was noted, however, that each referral program should still be promoted separately. Additionally, there was discussion about providing applicants with bi-monthly text or email reminders to promote the seasonal programs. C. Teen Job Fair Chair Son noted that the Teen Job Fair is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Arlington Ridge Center. Traditionally, Commissioners have reached out to businesses in January or February, but it was previously suggested that outreach could occur earlier. Chair Son added that she can promote to participating businesses in the library’s December or January newsletter, which is distributed to all households. There was also discussion about engaging the Chamber of Commerce to assist in recruiting businesses. The Commission decided that each Youth member will bring five additional business names to the next meeting and coordinate outreach. Chair Son will provide a view-only spreadsheet of the businesses currently being contacted. When asked if marketing materials will be ready by the next meeting, Chair Son confirmed that the form and letter 3 will be prepared. Additionally, it was requested that photos of the Youth Commissioners be taken at the next meeting. VI. NEW BUSINESS A. Youth Commissioners’ Projects The Commission discussed several opportunities, including participating in a walk for the American Heart Association, recruiting volunteers to share college prep tips, inviting testing companies to sponsor a class, and engaging in other group volunteer activities. Chair Son requested that the Youth Commissioners to reach out to their schools to identify what resources are currently available for ACT or SAT preparation and report back at the next meeting. It was also decided that Commissioners should bring ideas of volunteer opportunities to the next meeting. VII. OTHER BUSINESS A. Announcements / Correspondence 1. E-bikes and Scooters Discussion Ms. Tsagalis discussed the increasing use of e-bikes and scooters in Arlington Heights and the potential need for regulations and public education. She noted that other communities have implemented rules, and the Village Board is seeking insight from the Senior Citizens’ Commission, Youth Commission, and Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Discussion included safety concerns such as high speeds, sidewalk use, and helmet requirements, as well as equity considerations since e-bikes and scooters provide transportation for youth without driver’s licenses. The role of the police in enforcement was also noted, given current limitations. The Youth Commission may be tasked with education and outreach, including communicating new safety rules effectively to users, potentially using social media. VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT Public guest Keith Mowens commented that he encourages the Youth Commission to take the e-bike discussion seriously, provide input, and make recommendations to ensure the ordinance is fair. IX. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Hong, seconded by Commissioner Hafeez, moved to adjourn at 7:19 p.m. all concurred and the motion carried unanimously. 4

Agenda

Packet

AGENDA Youth Commission Commissions Room Arlington Heights Village Hall, 33 S. Arlington Heights Rd., AH 60005 August 28, 2025 6:00 PM I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS A. New Village Liaison, Mila Tsagalis and New Commissioner, Alejandria Galarza III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. May 15, 2025 Minutes IV. REPORTS A. Library B. Park District C. Police Department D. Schools E. Members at Large V. OLD BUSINESS A. Social Media Proposal The Commission will discuss any updates or progress on this proposal. B. Lawn Mowing Referral Program The Commission will discuss any updates or progress of this program. C. Teen Job Fair The Commission will discuss a timeline for appealing to businesses. The 2026 Teen Job Fair is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3. VI. NEW BUSINESS A. Youth Commissioners' Projects The Commission will discuss any projects, events, or initiatives they would like to share with the Commission for consideration and/or support. VII. OTHER BUSINESS Page 1 of 7 A. Announcements / Correspondence 1. E-Bikes and Scooters Discussion VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT Anyone wishing to speak on a subject not on the Agenda may speak at this time. Please limit your comments to three minutes. IX. ADJOURNMENT Persons with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services, such as an American Sign Language interpreter or written materials in accessible formats, should contact the Health & Human Services Department, at 33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005, healthmail@vah.com or 847/368-5760. Page 2 of 7 Minutes Youth Commission Village Hall, Commissions Room 33 S. Arlington Heights Rd. May 15, 2025 6:00 PM I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Son called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. All stood for the Pledge of Allegiance. II. ROLL CALL Present Also Present Alice Son, Chair James McCalister, Liaison Matt Healy Kimberly Witt, Administrative Assistant Taryn Holdman Cheryl Moore Aleena Patel Tyler Bennett Riley Phillips Absent Maria Georgakopoulas Afroz Hafeez Christopher Wong Jennifer Borrell Ava McQuade Colin Smith Sydney Galla Chair Son introduced the newest members, Commissioners Patel and Georgakopoulas. All attendees introduced themselves. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Minutes from February 20, 2025 A motion was made by Commissioner Hong to approve the minutes of the February 15, 2025 meeting, seconded by Commissioner McQuade and approved by unanimous consent. 1 Page 3 of 7 IV. REPORTS A. Library Chair Son reported that the library is gearing up for finals week, with the finals study lounge opening this Saturday at noon and running until the end of the school year. She encouraged students to drop by, enjoy some snacks, and make use of the available tables. For those interested in earning service hours, the library has an upcoming opportunity. Teen Donut Day will be held on June 6 in celebration of National Donut Day, featuring crafts and games. Additionally, the library is preparing for summer, with the summer reading program starting on June 1 and continuing through the end of July. The more you read, the more rewards you earn, including a free book at the end of the program. B. Park District Commissioner Healy reported that staff training for summer programs is underway, with pools set to open next weekend and camps starting the following week. Over 300 staff members, including lifeguards, cashiers, and concession staff, have been hired and trained. On June 9, the Park District will kick off its 100-year anniversary celebrations with the dedication and opening of the Rec Park playground. Themed celebrations will continue throughout the year. Commissioner Healy also mentioned that the Park District offers many opportunities for volunteer hours, and students are encouraged to check the website for more information. In August, additional renovations will take place at Rec Park around the pool, with the entire park expected to be fully renovated by next summer. The Ridge Center is also undergoing renovations to expand its facilities. C. Police Department Commissioner Holdman reported that they are gearing up for the Memorial Day parade. With summer being their busiest season, they are getting ready for all the upcoming summer events. D. Schools No report. E. Members at Large Commissioner McQuade from Hersey High School reported that students are preparing for finals. Many sports teams are beginning their conference competitions, including sectionals, regionals, and state tournaments. Commissioners Hong and Georgakopoulas from Buffalo Grove High School reported that AP exams have concluded and state testing was held a few weeks ago. Sports seasons are coming to an end, and summer sports camps are beginning. Students are also getting ready for finals. Commissioner Patel from Rolling Meadows High School reported that spring sports are in full swing. Seniors graduated earlier in the day and have completed their school year. 2 Page 4 of 7 Commissioner Phillips from Prospect High School reported that AP testing is underway, and students are focused on finishing the school year. V. OLD BUSINESS A. Lawn Mowing Referral Program Chair Son provided an overview of the Lawn Mowing Referral Program and distributed flyers to the members. She explained that it is the Youth Commissioners who promote the program by distributing flyers, posting them on school boards, or using other available school channels. Commissioner Hong shared that he spoke to his friends about the program and encouraged them to spread the word. Mr. McCalister noted that 30 students are currently signed up for the program, with Prospect High School having the highest participation at 9 students. B. 2026-2027 Strategic Priorities for Village of Arlington Heights Chair Son shared that every two years, the Village develops a set of Strategic Priorities to guide its focus and initiatives. The current 2024–2025 priorities are set to conclude at the end of this year, and the Trustees are in the process of developing the next set for 2026–2027. She informed the Commission of the items she submitted to the Village for consideration. C. Teen Job Fair Commissioner Phillips introduced the Teen Job Fair to the new Commissioners. She explained that Youth Commissioners are responsible for reaching out to businesses to participate in the event. They also promote the Job Fair, which gives teens the opportunity to connect with potential employers. Chair Son reported that 323 teens attended this year’s event. Chair Son requested feedback on the Teen Job Fair, specifically regarding whether to continue offering the parents’ lounge. In previous years, businesses expressed a preference to speak directly with teens without parent involvement. While it appeared that fewer parents used the lounge this year, it remains a nice amenity. The Commission also discussed strategies to increase business participation next year, including starting outreach earlier and considering the addition of food service businesses to the event. Another topic discussed was the raffle held during the Job Fair. Commissioners agreed that drawing a raffle prize every 30 minutes was effective, as it allowed teens to witness the winners being announced throughout the event rather than drawing the raffle after the event. The layout of the Welcome Desk, which was more spread out this year, was seen as an improvement compared to previous years. It helped reduce crowding and allowed Commissioners to interact with attendees more effectively without having to talk over one another. D. Social Media Proposal Commissioner McQuade shared background on the social media proposal, explaining that the Commission is looking for new ways to raise awareness about its work, membership, and initiatives. She noted that while posters are helpful, their reach is limited, and the Commission is seeking more effective methods of outreach to connect with a youth audience. 3 Page 5 of 7 As part of this effort, she mentioned the idea of “buddy projects,” where Youth Commissioners develop a service project during their term. She and Commissioner Smith proposed creating an Instagram account specifically for the Youth Commission as their project. Commissioner McQuade outlined the benefits of having a dedicated Instagram page, including the ability to share timely updates, showcase events, highlight Commissioners’ contributions, and directly engage with peers. She noted that this platform would offer more flexibility and a stronger youth voice than posting content solely through the Village’s social media channels. Commissioner McQuade presented a PowerPoint presentation detailing the proposal, which included several options for managing the Instagram account. The presentation covered topics such as content creation and account oversight. Following the presentation, the Commission discussed next steps for moving the proposal forward, including the process for gaining formal approval and establishing guidelines for account management. The Commission voted unanimously to move forward with the project, with all in favor and no opposition. VI. NEW BUSINESS VII. OTHER BUSINESS A. Announcements / Correspondence B. Honoring the service of Commissioners Bauer, Jochaniewicz, Moore and Village Liaison, James McCalister Chair Son congratulated Commissioners Bauer and Jochaniewicz on their graduations. She also recognized Commissioner Moore for her service on the Commission since 2000 and acknowledged the retirement of James McCalister, longtime Liaison to the Commission. Chair Son thanked all for their dedication and service. VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT None IX. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner McQuade, seconded by Commissioner Phillips, moved to adjourn at 7:11 p.m. all concurred and the motion carried unanimously. 4 Page 6 of 7 Youth Commission 8/28/2025 Item: Youth Commissioners' Projects The Commission will discuss any projects, events, or initiatives they would like to share with the Commission for consideration and/or support. Department: Health & Human Services Item Description: ATTACHMENTS: None Page 7 of 7