Murphy launches Citizens Academy to boost resident engagement and board recruitment

City staff introduced the Murphy Citizens Academy on April 1, a pilot civic-education program aimed at giving residents a structured look at city operations and encouraging participation in local boards and commissions.

Chelsea, a city staff member, said the program's purpose is to "educate and inform" residents about the functions of local government, from law enforcement to budgeting, through interactive sessions, department tours and a group community project. Graduate intern Kaysan Goss, who has been coordinating the program, described the cohort model and participation requirements.

"The purpose: educate and inform. We also want to enhance community connection, bring residents together ... develop future ambassadors for Murphy," said Kaysan Goss, graduate intern.

The program will be limited to 20 participants, open to Murphy residents age 18 and older who are not running for political office. Staff said graduation requirements include a 75% pass rate on course elements and attendance at at least one council or board/commission meeting. Graduates will receive a certificate and recognition at a council meeting. The packet indicates applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis via the city manager's web page and staff plans to advertise through the public affairs office and social media.

Council members asked how the program will feed into board and commission recruitment; staff said a program goal is to encourage graduates to apply for service and to measure success by participation after graduation. Council asked about costs; staff estimated the community project support would be within a $500 allotment, with total project expenses expected "no more than $2,000 total." Staff said the program will be delivered in person to maximize engagement.

Council did not take formal action on the program at the meeting; staff asked for direction and described outreach plans ahead of the pilot cohort.