FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12/16/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City Advertising for Volunteers for the Framingham Youth Council
FRAMINGHAM - The City of Framingham is now accepting applications to fill all 13 seats on the Framingham Youth Council. The application portal is open, and eligible Framingham youth are encouraged to apply by January 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
The Framingham Youth Council was established by unanimous vote of the City Council in 2019 to ensure young residents have a voice in City government. The Council was created following an ordinance authored by then-17-year-old Framingham resident Isabella Petroni, who served as the Council’s first Chair, until she resigned when she was elected a Library Trustee.
The Youth Council is comprised of 13 individuals – one from each of Framingham’s nine districts nominated by the district City Councilors, two individuals nominated by the At-Large Councilors, and two individuals appointed by the Mayor.
- District Youth Councilors serve one-year terms ending June 30, 2027.
- At-Large Councilors and Mayor’s appointees serve two-year terms ending June 30, 2028.
- Members may continue to serve until re-nominated or replaced.
Applicants must be between the ages of 13 and 22, reside in Framingham, and be registered voters if eligible.
The Youth Council evaluates issues facing youth, advises elected officials, advocates for young residents, promotes civic participation, and provides policy recommendations on matters affecting youth. Specific responsibilities include:
- Evaluating and reviewing issues facing youth in the City.
- Representing youth in Framingham and advising elected officials and policymakers on matters of interest or concern to young people.
- Providing information to and advocating before public entities including the Mayor, municipal government, state and federal government, police, school districts, and higher education institutions in support of young people.
- Providing a structure for all young people in Framingham to learn the value of civic participation and encouraging lifelong participatory residents.
- Offering policy recommendations on issues affecting and of interest to young people.
- Engaging with young people in Framingham to inform them of opportunities and listening to their suggestions regarding how the community can better serve its residents.
- Conducting an annual joint meeting with the Superintendent in January of each year.
Applicants should demonstrate a desire to serve as a Youth Council member, participate in Framingham’s government processes, and provide unique perspectives, leadership, and input on matters that shape and influence the future of Framingham.
The Youth Council meets at least monthly in accordance with the Open Meeting Law, elects its leadership annually, works with City Council and School Committee liaisons, and operates five standing subcommittees.
How to Apply
The Youth Council application portal is now open. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Apply online: https://www.framinghamma.gov/formcenter/city-council-33/youth-council-application-form-193
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