Jim Julian praises Pinole's Citizens Academy for enhancing community engagement

In the heart of Pinole City Hall, a vibrant discussion unfolded during the City Council meeting on September 2, 2025, as community members and officials reflected on the recent Citizens Academy. This initiative, designed to educate residents about local governance and city operations, garnered enthusiastic testimonials from participants who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with city leaders and learn about the inner workings of their community.

Jim Julian, a long-time resident, shared his appreciation for the program, highlighting how it provided valuable insights into city functions and future aspirations. “I’ve lived here for 26 years, but this is my first time,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of such educational initiatives in fostering civic engagement. Other attendees echoed his sentiments, praising the welcoming atmosphere and the wealth of information shared by city officials, including the city manager and the chief of police.

However, the meeting also revealed concerns regarding the program's accessibility. Several residents voiced frustrations about the limited enrollment of just 30 participants, which they felt excluded a broader segment of the community. Irma Ruport, a resident who was unable to attend, criticized the selection process and called for more transparency and inclusivity in future events. “You cannot function with just a small amount of people,” she asserted, urging the council to consider the needs of disabled and senior citizens who may struggle to attend in-person sessions.

Council Member Martinez Rubin raised questions about the types of inquiries participants had during the academy, noting that many focused on police operations and community safety. She also inquired about the absence of governance discussions, which had been intentionally minimized in the curriculum. The city manager responded, explaining that the program was designed to be attendee-driven, allowing participants to guide the topics of discussion.

As the council deliberated on the future of the Citizens Academy, suggestions emerged to expand the program from three to four or five sessions, potentially incorporating a public graduation ceremony to celebrate participants' achievements. There was also discussion about introducing a materials fee to cover costs, although concerns were raised about how this might limit participation from lower-income residents.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to improve the program based on feedback received, including the possibility of offering a hybrid format to accommodate those unable to attend in person. Councilor Thomas noted the success of the inaugural academy and expressed optimism for its future, suggesting that recording sessions could enhance accessibility and engagement.

As Pinole City looks ahead, the dialogue from this meeting underscores the importance of community involvement and the need for inclusive practices that ensure all residents have a voice in shaping their city’s future.