This year’s group of youngsters recommended two projects for review and discussion: Establishing a Public Art Plan for the city, and implementing special needs aquatic programs at Splash!

Each year, members of Congress and the State Assembly and Senate recognize the efforts of the Youth In Government students at the program’s annual concluding ceremony.

This year’s members include Mayor Steven Soto, Mayor Pro Tem Alyssa Ortega, Councilman Sejin Chung, Councilman Miles Aiello, and Councilman Hermis Alvarenga.

La Mirada Councilman Pete Dames took notice of the absence of officials from La Mirada High and the Norwalk-La Mirada School District, “If this was a CIF championship, officials would be lined up across the back row", said Dames, gesturing to the back of the room.

“These kids you see here tonight are the best of the best. It’s a shame nobody from our educational system is here to see what great students they produce.”

Above, La Mirada City Councilman Hal Malkin and Youth in Government Councilman/counterpart, Miles Aiello.