The deadline for applying is May 9.

LEWISTON – The city of Lewiston announces that Lewiston Youth Advisory Council members are being sought for the 2003-2004 school year. Seven members are serving, and each April a new selection process begins. The purpose is to serve as an advisory council to the Lewiston City Council in regard to community issues affecting youth, and members also serve as a liaison between the youth of the community and the city.

The council also enables youth to work toward goals that empower all of the community’s youth, as well as undertake service projects that enhance the community. The council was established by the Lewiston City Council in October of 2001.

Most recently, the existing membership have voiced their support of proposed legislation to lower the voting age to 17 and are working on an alternative regarding the secretary of state’s proposed changes to the teen driver’s license process.

During the first year the youth participated in a 9/11 remembrance; undertaken a multi-faceted noise pollution awareness campaign; provided youth delegate representation at a National League of Cities event; participated in a Rebuilding Together community housing initiative; filmed a public service announcement advocating parental involvement; assisted with the community’s annual holiday celebration; provided representation at a WGME live television program focusing on war; and are considering maintaining a community Adopt-A-Spot.

To be considered for membership, an individual must be a Lewiston resident and a high school student/home schooled student in grades nine through 12 or at the time of application, an eighth-grade student who will enter grade nine the following academic year.

Youth are encouraged to apply, and applications will be made available at Lewiston High School, St. Dominic Regional High School, Lewiston Middle School, the City Administrator’s Office, 27 Pine St., and the Lewiston Recreation Department, 65 Central Ave.

A Selection Committee will review applications, conduct group interviews and appoint up to 15 youth for the 2003-2004 school year who best stand out among the applicants. Current members may re-apply. Deadline for applications is May 9.

Students will be chosen as members based on their willingness to serve, ability to interact with others and ability to be a youth leader. The committee will make a selection by the last Friday in June, and selected youth will be officially appointed during a July City Council meeting.

Inquiries may be directed to 784-2951, extension 110.