Department Budget and Innovation
Reference: Sustainability Advisory Board Youth Membership Update
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael P. Martinez, City Manager
Prepared By: Traci McLean, Sustainability Coordinator
Date Prepared: August 18, 2026
PURPOSE
To consider an amendment to Article 2-33 of the Brighton Municipal Code regarding youth membership on the Sustainability Advisory Board.
BACKGROUND
The Sustainability Advisory Board was established to advise City Council and the Budget and Innovation Department on programs, policies, and initiatives that advance the goals of the City’s Sustainability Plan. The Board consists of seven voting members, including two youth members. Staff is proposing a minor update to the Board’s membership structure to strengthen coordination between the Sustainability Advisory Board and the Brighton Youth Commission while continuing to provide an opportunity for youth from the broader Brighton community to participate.
The proposed ordinance would update the two youth positions on the Sustainability Advisory Board as follows:
• One position would be designated for a Brighton Youth Commission member. This creates a direct connection between the two advisory bodies and provides an opportunity for a Youth Commission member to participate in sustainability-related discussions and initiatives.
• One youth position would remain open more broadly. This position may be filled by another Brighton Youth Commission member or by a youth between the ages of 13 and 18, allowing youth who are not members of the Youth Commission to continue to apply and participate.
The proposed ordinance also makes corresponding updates to the initial appointment terms for the youth positions to align with the revised membership structure.
The proposed changes maintain dedicated youth representation on the Sustainability Advisory Board while creating a stronger connection with the Brighton Youth Commission. At the same time, maintaining a youth position that is open to the broader community provides flexibility and ensures that participation is not limited exclusively to Youth Commission members. This approach supports youth civic engagement and provides additional opportunities for young people to participate in City advisory boards and sustainability initiatives.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that Council approve the Sustainability Advisory Board youth membership update.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL
• Approve the amendments to the ordinance for the Sustainability Advisory Board
• Deny the amendments to the ordinance for the Sustainability Advisory Board
• Provide further direction to staff
ATTACHMENTS
• Amending Sustainability Advisory Board Youth Members - Ordinance
• Sustainability Advisory Board Update- Presentation