Dressed in uniform, a group of cadets studying domestic affairs from the United States Military Academy West Point toured Santa Clarita last week, taking in the stories of the city’s history and government functions.

Last week, eight cadets studying domestic affairs from West Point had the opportunity to tour the City of Santa Clarita and meet with Mayor Laurene Weste, along with a variety of City staff to learn more about local politics and governance, according to a statement from the City. 

Learning about local government in a sit-down conversation with the mayor, the cadets gathered in the Council Chambers, listening to stories about the city’s history, budget process as well as current challenges on the local, state and federal level. 

“I am extremely honored to have had the opportunity to speak with these cadets to teach them more about our local government and give them insight to how our City operates and functions,” Mayor Weste said. “It is pivotal to have youth like these cadets become engaged in local government to learn more about how they can make a positive impact for their community and for their future.”

When their sit-down with the mayor came to a close, the cadets traveled throughout Santa Clarita, stopping at key facilities important to the function of the city. 

Their first stop brought them to the City’s Corporate Yard, where they learned hands-on how the City creates street signs, works on a fleet of cars and trucks and the multiple divisions making up Public Works. 

Later on their tour, the cadets were able to share a little about what they do with kids from an after-school program at the new Canyon Country Community Center. 

The children in the program left the presentation with knowledge of what the cadets do, even memorizing a West Point chant, according to City officials. 

The cadets were later taken to a walk-through tour of Old Town Newhall where they learned the history of the area including the Veterans Historical Plaza, Old Town Newhall Library and new Laemmle Theaters. 

Touring the dedicated district for arts and entertainment, the cadets learned about the collaboration between the City of Santa Clarita and local businesses as well as the importance of community arts districts, according to City officials.. 

Concluding the tour at the new Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, the cadets met with Lt. Rod Loughridge to learn more about their role and partnership with the City.

The cadets were accompanied by City Major Brian Harris, who researched and developed a free homeless action plan for Santa Clarita in 2019, according to officials. 

“The City is happy to have provided the opportunity for the cadets to learn hands-on about local governance and the importance of community engagement,” read a statement from the City of Santa Clarita.

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