EMMITSBURG, Md. – There’s nothing for kids to do in Emmitsburg. It’s a complaint that the mayor and town commissioners have heard from parents and teen.

Emmitsburg Mayor James Hoover doesn’t feel that’s the case, but he would probably be the first to admit he’s not a teenager with long summer days to fill. Because of this, Hoover wants to start a youth advisory committee.

“I get told there’s not enough for kids to do,” Hoover said. “Well, here’s their opportunity to tell the town what it is they want to do.”

Hoover’s efforts to get the committee started haven’t met with any success so far.

“No one’s asked to participate. No one’s even commented on it,” Hoover said.

He said if teens in town really want more options for things to do, the youth advisory committee is the forum where they can make it happen.

“It is an opportunity to get the youth involved in town government,” Hoover said. “They can get their two cents in on what the town does.”

Hoover is looking to gather a group of about a dozen town teens from ages 12-18. They will meet in public meetings to discuss issues they are interested in that will improve the quality of life for teens. They will also select their own chairman, vice-chairman and secretary.

Hoover said he believes that the work on committee will qualify for any volunteer hours students might need in school. He is also willing to buy the committee lunch when they meet.

Any teen interested in participating or seeking more information should call Mayor Hoover at (301) 447-2140.