HAGERSTOWN – A spirited debate unfolded at the Hagerstown City Council meeting as residents and community leaders urged officials to consider lowering the voting age in city elections to 16. Supporters said the change would empower teenagers who already contribute to the community through work, taxes, volunteering, and civic engagement.
The proposal, known locally as “Vote 16,” has been gaining momentum across the state. At least five other Maryland municipalities, including Takoma Park and Greenbelt, have already adopted similar measures for local races.
NAACP endorses youth vote
Taj Smith, president of the Washington County NAACP, told council members that the initiative aligns with the organization’s long-standing civil rights priorities. “We support pre-registration for young voters, oppose voter suppression, and actively promote civic participation among youth,” Smith said. “This movement is vital for boosting involvement in our democracy, enabling them to vote on issues that directly impact their lives”.
She criticized arguments that linked the proposal to unrelated immigration concerns, calling such claims “political rhetoric that unfairly dismisses youth voices.”
Young residents speak out
High school student Zoe Bernett also addressed the council, emphasizing that young people are ready to participate in decisions that shape their future. “16-year-olds and 17-year-olds in Hagerstown work jobs, pay taxes, drive on our roads, and follow the same laws as adults,” she said. “We volunteer, we participate in school board meetings, and we care deeply about the community. We deserve a seat at the table”.
Bernett urged council members to begin drafting an amendment to the city charter, which would be required to implement the change.
Another resident, Jason McGill, noted that local issues such as school safety, parks, and transit affect teenagers more directly than national debates. He said voting early builds lifelong civic habits and strengthens democracy over time.
Council divided
The council did not take a formal vote on the matter. Some members voiced skepticism, citing concerns about costs, logistics, and voter readiness. Others signaled openness to exploring the idea further.
Supporters countered that the financial impact would be minimal compared to other city expenses. They pointed to recent spending on projects such as parking garages and recreation programs as evidence that the city could afford the change.
A potential first for Western Maryland
If adopted, Hagerstown would become the first municipality in Western Maryland to allow 16 and 17 year olds to cast ballots in city races. Advocates say the move could position the city as a regional leader in youth civic engagement.
For now, the council is expected to revisit the issue in upcoming sessions. Youth advocates pledged to keep pressing.
