Youth Council

The Cape Coral Youth Council (established in February 2017) is made up of representatives from schools across Cape Coral, as well as one at-large member, under the supervision of Councilmember Jennifer Lastra. The fully established board advises the Cape Coral City Council, making recommendations on certain topics, representing the younger population of Cape Coral in City government, and advocating for City-wide issues alongside their peers.
Mission Statement:
The goal and purpose of the City of Cape Coral’s Youth Council are to propose and implement ideas and activities for the enrichment of Cape Coral’s Youth. These students are honorable, trustworthy ambassadors representing the City of Cape Coral enthusiastically and respectfully.  They are role models who volunteer with lighthearted attitudes and a desire to serve the community's common good.

Vision Statement:
Cape Coral’s Youth Council aims to instill traits of leadership, professional development, and political experience to enable our youth to become productive citizens and leaders in the community.

Values:
  • Integrity
  • Leadership
  • Empathy
  • Teamwork
  • Citizen Satisfaction
  • Quality of Life
  • Financial Accountability
  • Communication
 

Meeting Time/Location:


The Cape Coral Youth Council meets on the second Friday of the month. (Meeting times during summer months may vary. Check the City’s calendar for updated information.)
 

Length of Term:


The term runs from May 1 to April 30. Applications are available each year no later than February 28. 
 

Qualifications:


Youth Council members must be residents of the City of Cape Coral and enrolled in one of the listed schools during their term.

  • Cape Coral High School
  • Ida Baker High School
  • Island Coast High School
  • Mariner High School
  • North Fort Myers High School
  • Oasis High School
  • At-large from homeschooling or another source, including but not limited to a private school, charter school, or virtual school.
Applicants must complete and submit an application, linked below. Applications will be reviewed, and qualifying candidates will complete an interview process.
 

How to Apply:


Download and complete the Youth Council application, attach all supporting documentation, save it as a PDF attachment, and email it to Connie Griglin at cgriglin@capecoral.gov, or deliver it in person to:
City Clerk's Office
1015 Cultural Park Blvd
Cape Coral, FL 33990
 

Contact information:

 
Facebook: @ccyouthcouncil
Instagram: @capecoral_youthcouncil
Twitter: @CapeCoral_YC

2026-2027 Youth Council Members


Shalia Hechavarria-Campbell Headshot Photo

Shalia Hechavarria Campbell
Junior | Mariner High School
Future Career: International Corporate Lawyer

Maisie Neis Headshot Photo
Maisie Neis
Junior | Oasis High School
Future Career: Veterinarian


Tuero- Jennifer
Jennifer Tuero
Senior | Ida Baker High School
Future Career: Pediatrician

Vargas-Kamila

Kamila Vargas
Senior | Cape Coral High School
Future Career: Finance