The Rochester Olmsted Youth Council (ROYC) is supported through a partnership between the City of Rochester and Olmsted County. 

ROYC is for 14-20 year old students in Olmsted County who are interested in participating in local government by serving in an advisory role to City and County leadership. Council members are encouraged to be the voice of students and youth in addressing community issues. Members will interact regularly with local elected officials as well to apply to participate in local/national leadership opportunities. 

ROYC Meetings

The ROYC meets monthly to hear from students about community issues which impact them, learn more about their communities with featured speakers, and provide feedback on City/County projects, initiatives, and/or programs.

Meetings are scheduled on the first Wednesday of each month at 5 pm at the Government Center in Rochester. The meetings are scheduled for 1.5 hours and include dinner/refreshments.

ROYC Membership

Membership is open to any high school or local college-aged student who lives in, or attends school in Olmsted County.

There are two application cycles: August 15-October 15 and February 28-March 31 each year. 

The application can be found here. 

ROYC Commitment 

Attend one meeting per month/attend 80 percent of the scheduled meetings, unless excused.

Attend one City Council and one County Board meeting per academic year and share insights at the ROYC meetings.

Attend one student gathering (e.g. school or community forum, school club, community event) per academic year.

Present key learning concepts in May to City and County elected officials.

For More Information

For more information, please contact Michon Rogers at mrogers@rochestermn.gov.