The Hickory Youth Council consists of 30 high school students from throughout the City who are charged with representing all the youth in the City of Hickory.

These high school students serve as an advisory council to the Hickory City Council, participate in community service projects, and hold events that build leadership skills for themselves and their peers.

The Youth Council meets on the third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. at various City facilities or community locations between August and May. The meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend. See the City events calendar for upcoming meetings.

If you have any additional questions about the Youth Council, call Staff Liaison Sam Abernethy at 828-323-7558 or email sabernethy@hickorync.gov.

Youth Council Recruitment 2026-2027

The Hickory Youth Council is currently recruiting new members for the 2026-2027 school year. Rising 9th through 12th graders living in the Hickory city limits or attending a school that has a seat on the council are eligible to apply to serve on the Youth Council. Applications are due by Friday, May 29.  Please sign in with a Google compatible email address to complete the online application.

2026-2027 Online Application

2026-2027 Signatures Form

2026-2027 Reference Form

Youth Council Members for 2026-2027

Adley Drum; Adrian Almanza; Nahla Holmes; Anthem Avangeline; Bailey Danner; Callie Canella; Carson Fincher; Chance Ly; Charlie Bowman; Clayton Crowley; Cole Caudle; Ella Barkley; Ella Sprinkle; Emme Oursler; Ethan Melon; Evelyn Cinson; Evie Hight; Harrison Bogle; Mason Packard; McKinley Hilton; Noah Roeder; Payton Scronce; Porter Bray; Stephanie Flores; Taylor Stahlschmidt; Walker Cox; Xavier Springs; Yangqing  Shao

Youth Council Officers for 2026-2027

Representatives on other Hickory Boards and Commissions: