Two birds, one stone

This is about two seemingly unrelated problems. I have a proposal that will not solve either one, but may help both. I believe, sadly, that Tiffin's greatest export is talented young people. It is that way in many of our area's communities. At 18 or 22, so many students graduate and leave the area for career and education opportunities elsewhere, returning only for holidays or reunions. In the last 60 years the nation's population has doubled, while Tiffin's population has dropped in nearly every census. Separately, our city government has a variety of boards and commissions. Some have authority to make final decisions, like the zoning board. Others serve only an advisory role for the mayor and city council, like the Shade Tree Commission. Although it varies, the mayor appoints about five people each to about 25 boards, most of them volunteer positions. A broad cross-section of citizens in the community can provide their expertise and opinions to assist the mayor and council for good governance. Most spots are multi-year terms. Many boards meet only as needed, just a few hours a year. Some come with specific qualifications, but the majority are available to any interested citizen — no experience required. A variety of viewpoints is an advantage! At any given time there are several vacancies. A few people serve in multiple positions, presumably due to a lack of individuals willing to step up. So, how are these connected? I am proposing that the mayor appoint high school students to as many of these boards and commissions as possible. Since most are not yet 18, they could do everything except vote or be an officer. I want them to ask questions, make comments, contribute new ideas, and voice opinions. I suspect many of the existing board members will be skeptical at first, but very impressed with the students by the end of the second meeting. These are mentorship opportunities. For the student, this would certainly qualify as community service for graduation. "Appointed by the mayor" looks really nice on a resume or college application. When they turn 18, they could be appointed to a vacancy for full membership, already experienced with how it works. Hopefully, it ties them to the community as they see opportunities for local leadership positions as a young adult. Acquiring a similar position in a big city might take many years. We can offer it now. Although I would recommend that this be open to any interested student, I suspect most applicants will be fine young people already in leadership positions at school, such as student council, club president, or team captain. My guess is you will find most of them already on the Honor Roll or "student of the month". These are the community leaders of tomorrow — in Tiffin or their similar local communities, or wherever they end up. Why not show them now the opportunities they have in Tiffin or other if they stay, and keep them here? David Koehl is a former member and chairman of the Seneca County Board of Elections, and was chairman of the Seneca County Republican Party. He can be reached at paperandink44883@yahoo.com.