Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy held its October meeting at the Warsaw Police Station.
Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer spoke about the duties of the mayor’s office, the city council’s responsibilities and about the different city departments. Thallemer highlighted some of the city’s current projects and long-term goals.
Kosciusko County Commissioner Brad Jackson talked about some of the decisions that are made by him and the other county commissioners. County road upkeep and improvement are areas that have to be decided on. Jackson shared that because of federal regulation, there are limitations on what roads and projects federal money can be used for. These federal regulations dictate many of the decisions the county makes.
Ryan Mishler, District 9 State Senator, informed the cadets about the workings of the state government. The students learned how bills are passed, the schedule of a state legistrator and the content of Indiana’s budget.
Mishler encouraged the students to volunteer as a student page or intern to learn better how the state government works. Mishler commended the city and county for working together to share some common responsibilities to help save money and make the community a great place to live.
Each of the speakers encouraged the students to become involved in community events and meetings.
KYLA moderator Tony Ciriello concluded the session by discussing what qualities make a good leader. The next meeting will be at Chore-Time Brock in Milford Nov. 7 where the students will learn about agri-business in Kosciusko County.
For more information about KYLA, go to www.kylaleadership.org
