On October 7, 2025, the Tacoma City Council unanimously passed Ordinance 29056, to repurpose existing Committee, Board, and Commission (CBC) youth and student positions into restructured and enhanced Emerging Leader positions. This ordinance was sponsored by District 2 Council Member Sarah Rumbaugh, with co-sponsors At-Large Council Member Olgy Diaz and District 4 Council Member Sandesh Sadalge.
“We cannot build the future of our city without the energy, passion, and perspective of our youth,” said Council Member Rumbaugh. “The reality is that youth have not always had clear access or encouragement to serve on boards and commissions. I have felt that gap myself as a committee chair, rarely seeing young candidates. This proposal opens doors and creates real opportunities for youth leadership and professional growth. I am inspired by the chance to include their voices and watch them lead Tacoma toward a brighter tomorrow.”
There are eight CBCs with specified youth seats or past legislative direction to create a youth seat. This ordinance aligns appointment processes and requirements for all CBC youth seats to reduce confusion in the application process, increase recruitment and retention for youth seat positions, and streamline work. 16 to 24-year-old individuals will qualify for Emerging Leader positions.
“Engagement early in life instills a spirit of service,” said Council Member Diaz. “This enhanced focus on incorporating youth voices into City work will not just change the relationship youth have with government; it will change how youth build community. The increased focus on mentorship and support shows young leaders how we are all invested in their success.”
“My outreach this year with young people, from elementary through high school, really reinforced how much insight they have and how clearly they understand their world,” said Council Member Sadalge. “As they begin taking on new roles in their communities and stepping into leadership, it is important that we create opportunities for emerging leaders to participate in local decision-making. These roles offer a meaningful first step into self-governance and help build a more inclusive and representative civic process.”
This ordinance also directs the City Manager to leverage existing partnerships and resources to recruit and support Emerging Leaders. The policy will be implemented in 2026.