County Board Supervisor Dave Ripp and County Board Chair Patrick Miles presented to approximately 100 youth at Dane County Government Day, an event organized by the American Legion.
The event introduces youth to various aspects of Dane County government.
“County government serves a very important role, and it touches people every day. It is important to educate and include Dane County youth in government processes and decisions. They will be the future leaders of the county, and their voice is very important in decisions that we make,” Ripp said. Ripp represents the rural areas just north and west of Waunakee, including the Village of Dane and towns Vienna, Springfield and Dane.
Ripp is one two veterans on the Dane County Board, he said, and local Waunakee American Legion Auxiliary member Shirley Kubiak chaired the event.
Additionally, Dane County has a Youth in Governance Program (YGP) that was created in 2012 in an effort for youth to make a change in county government, and at the same time develop skills that can help them in the future. More information about YGP can be found here: https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/youthgovernanceprogram/
“I was honored to present to these students and hear their questions and concerns. I hope this exposure to Dane County inspires youth to get involved in county government. Their input is extremely important as we continue to tackle various issues,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles.
