Demetrius C. Bynes

The meeting focused on collaboration and mutual support among youth-serving organizations in Statesboro. Organizations shared their current programs and challenges, covering areas such as mentorship, summer work programs for youth aged 16-24, tutoring in math and English, financial literacy initiatives, and rebuilding teen programs. Key themes identified included financial literacy and preventing youth from falling through the cracks. A motion was passed to sponsor up to 40 pool passes to Luetta Moore Pool for identified families. Announcements included an invitation for members to meet regarding Youth Connect and Youth Council, and information about a potential local therapist.

Key discussions included a presentation on the Statesboro Area Transit system, detailing proposed routes, fares, operational hours, and projected timelines for mobile ticketing and bus acquisition; progress updates on the Zoning ordinances map and draft ordinances; and a review of current Georgia Power initiatives such as energy efficiency audits with rebates, LED calculator tools, appliance recycling programs, and EV savings calculators. Old business addressed planning for GreenFest, including survey questions for public outreach, and reviewing the status of the City transportation map revision for the Bike City initiative, including researching cyclist app usage in Statesboro.

The meeting began with introductions, noting the diverse experience new members bring. A review of the organization's history, mission, accomplishments, and future goals was conducted. Key transitions included the stepping down of both co-chairpersons and the past secretary. New officers were welcomed, with Jennifer Mock taking the role of Secretary, and Kristina Patterson and Lakesha Hill sharing Co-Chairperson responsibilities. The group also adjusted the regular meeting time from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., while keeping the day as the Third Thursday of each month.

The meeting included an update on the Mayor's priorities for the Commission, focusing on establishing four designated children's zones, potentially utilizing the Harlem Children's Zone model, with brainstorming for tutoring services beginning in the 21-22 school year. Key takeaways from the 'Securing Statesboro: Keeping our City Safe' forum were summarized, emphasizing literacy, safe spaces, and mental health resources, alongside discussions regarding violence and juvenile gangs. The commission discussed outreach and mentorship projects related to the opening of the renovated Luetta Moore and Reverend W.D. Kent parks, suggesting STEM programming, career exposure, career days, internships, and community clean-up initiatives. A discussion on forming sub-committees resulted in the establishment of Leadership Development, Grants, Programming, and Community Outreach/Strategic Planning committees.

The meeting featured a presentation and subsequent discussion concerning Bicycle/Alternative Transportation Project Plans within the City, focusing on reducing transportation emissions by increasing bike routes and walkability, and integrating a bicycle plan into the new transportation master plan. A subcommittee, headed by Carolyn Altman, was established to develop this bicycle plan. Key discussion points involved road diets for traffic calming and connectivity between existing trails. The Commission also addressed Old Business related to energy objectives, including energy efficiencies, solar projects, and microgrids, resulting in the unanimous approval of a new energy objective to increase renewable energy use. New Business involved reviewing materials for an upcoming GreenFest event and deciding against immediate changes to the bylaws regarding subcommittee membership.