On December 9th, Mayor Whitten, Councilman Doug Capps, and City Manager Tim Bolduc participated in the Crestview High School Student Government (SGA) Leadership Convention. The convention took place at the Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library and featured local business owners and city officials. 

Mayor Whitten engaged students with stories of governmental ethics and the importance of the Home Rule. Councilman Capps and Mr. Bolduc discussed city planning and the value of developing and supporting our local economy. 

“As someone who was fascinated by local government when I was a student at CHS, it was inspiring to see that same passion today,” said Councilman Capps.

SGA has been a valuable asset for students at Crestview High School. Brittany Young, the teacher responsible for leading this year’s SGA program, is very passionate about providing her students with the tools they will need to succeed in life. 

“I want my students to understand the value of investing in their local community and how that investment benefits not just them but others in the community as well,” Ms. Young said. 

“Being in SGA started as just another way for me to get involved but has turned into something that has boosted my self-confidence, leadership skills, problem-solving, and ability to create relationships with others,” said SGA member Lily Rath.

Going deeper: While the students participating in the event were excited to have an opportunity to engage city leadership directly, they didn’t hold back when it came time for Q&A. 

• The students asked questions ranging from how the city addresses homelessness to the impact of the recent Tourist Development District expansion. 

“These kids are impressive,” said Tim Bolduc. “I look forward to seeing what they do for our community in the coming years. I may even put some of them to work.”