The City of New Smyrna Beach Celebrates Florida City Government Week

The City of New Smyrna Beach celebrated Florida City Government Week by sponsoring a “Student” City Commission Meeting in collaboration with New Smyrna Beach High School on Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at City Hall in the Commission Chamber. 

Students representing the New Smyrna Beach High School Tenth Grade Social Studies Honors Class, led by Department Chair Teresa Tyson, assumed the roles of Mayor, Commissioners for City Commission Zones 1 through 4, City Manager, Assistant City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, Community Redevelopment Director, and Planning Manager; the remaining students became active members of the general public.  The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and provide staff guidance regarding short and long term initiatives directly related to public parking availability in the vicinity of City beachside locations.  The specific topic was the same agenda item as considered recently by the City Commission.  The meeting notice was posted on the City website and was also open to the general public.  In addition, information was sent to the local paper about this City Government Week activity.

The Mayor called the meeting to order; the City Clerk conducted a roll call; the City Manager outlined the item; alternatives were discussed; public input was taken; and, the Commission gave its collective guidance to staff.  The class was represented at a previous City Commission meeting, which served as a platform to rehearse for the big day.

After the meeting, lunch was provided and students had the opportunity to speak with members of the City Commission and City staff. The event proved to be an example of how relationships between local government and area schools can be strengthened through such joint adventures.