Baker High Students Join Mayor Waites in Launch of Mayor’s Youth Council

BAKER, La. — The City of Baker is proud to announce the formation of the Mayor’s Youth Council, following a powerful roundtable discussion held this week between Mayor Darnell Waites and ten students from Baker High School.

The meeting at Baker City Hall served as a launchpad for civic dialogue, with students bringing forward key concerns about youth engagement, infrastructure, and community development. Mayor Waites opened the discussion with an overview of local government, emphasizing the importance of civic knowledge and youth participation in shaping the city’s future.

“These students are informed, passionate, and ready to lead,” said Mayor Waites. “Their voices will play a vital role in how we move Baker forward — not years from now, but starting today.”

The students highlighted several issues impacting their lives and neighborhoods, including:

• Poor road conditions and infrastructure needs
• A lack of youth-centered programs to reduce crime
• Limited dining options for families and special occasions
• Concerns about gun violence in the community

In attendance was Lt. Randolph Harrell of the Baker Police Department, who spoke candidly with students about social media awareness and its growing connection to youth-related crime. His message stressed digital responsibility and informed decision-making.

To conclude the event, Mayor Waites formally introduced the Mayor’s Youth Council, a monthly advisory group made up of student representatives. The council will serve as a bridge between local government and the youth of Baker, providing a platform for honest dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.

Lunch was provided by Jason’s Deli, giving students and officials a chance to continue conversations in a more relaxed setting.

“The Mayor’s Youth Council is more than a program,” said Mayor Waites. “It’s a movement toward building a city where young people are seen, heard, and valued.”