A “mock” Lady Lake Commission, made up of seventh graders from the Villages Charter School, has voted in favor of a homeless shelter costing a little more than $1 million.
It was an exercise in civics for the 40 students who took on the roles of Lady Lake commissioners, the police chief, town attorney and other officials Thursday at Lady Lake Town Hall.
It was a first-of-its-kind exercise and was enthusiastically embraced by the citizens of tomorrow.
The idea for the homeless shelter was presented by acting police chief Samuel Peterson who had to field some tough questions from the commissioners and the public.
Peterson, who would like to be a history professor some day, provided assurances that the homeless shelter would not be close to a residential area and met zoning requirements. The shelter would rely on organizations like the Salvation Army to provide food for those staying at the facility.
After calming concerns from the public, it was time for a roll call vote.
Peterson was elated to see his proposal approved on a 4-1 commission vote.
“It is good to give people a home, even if it’s temporary,” he said.
Sarah Whittle took on the role of mayor and got some real-time advice from Lady Lake Mayor Ruth Kussard on how to conduct the public meeting.
Watching it all was Marie Ray of the American Legion Auxiliary, which helped put the exercise together.
“I think it’s great,” said Ray. “It’s important that the students see how government actually works.”
She said she hopes this first mock assembly in Lady Lake will lead to many more.
