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Council hears proposal for citizens engagement academy modeled on police academy
Summary
City staff proposed a Citizens Engagement Academy patterned on the successful Citizens Police Academy to educate residents about local government; staff will develop a curriculum and return in the first quarter for council approval, aiming for 20–25 participants per cohort.
Michael Spurgeon introduced a proposal to create a Citizens Engagement Academy modeled on the existing Citizens Police Academy, saying the police program’s alumni have become important community advocates and that a broader academy would educate residents about municipal operations, utilities, departments and partnerships with the school district and chamber.
Spurgeon and several council members discussed format, timing and potential curriculum topics (e.g., utilities, budgeting, department overviews). Councilors suggested keeping cohorts small (20–25 participants) and involving department directors and partner organizations. Staff said they have models to adapt, will refine a proposal and return to council in the first quarter for review and input.
No formal approval was required at this meeting; councilors expressed general support and asked staff to prepare a detailed prospectus and schedule.
