Citizens Academy

Are you curious about how your city government works? Are you interested in participating in discussions and decisions that affect your quality of life? Want to see what the inside of a sewer pipe really looks like?

The inaugural Victoria Citizens Academy draws on learning from successful citizen academies across the nation. These academies are often modelled after citizens police academies, which began in the mid-1980’s as a tool to foster stronger citizen commitment to police department and community, in an effort to reduce crime. Citizen police academies are now popular in communities large and small throughout the country.

Over six weeks in February-March 2020, participants will engage with city staff and each other to learn about how city services decisions are made, how services are delivered and how you can engage in that process. A “behind-the-scenes” field trip caps the academy as you tour the water treatment plant, public works facility and more.

The academy is on Thursday nights, from February 13-March 12, with the optional field trip on Saturday, March 14. Thursday night sessions begin at 6:30 pm and run until 7:30 or 8:15 pm, depending on topics. Light refreshments will be available.

Apply to join the inaugural class of the Victoria Citizens Academy.