Citizens Academy

The City of Victoria Citizens Academy is a free program designed to help Victoria residents learn about their city government.

The course is a series of presentations, tours, and demonstrations by city departments. These presentations cover the basic departmental functions and goals and are followed by a question and answer session. A meal and drink will be provided at each session.

Schedule

The 2024 Citizens Academy will be held from January 25 to February 22 on consecutive Thursday evenings 1:30-5 p.m. (the first session will be 1:30-6, and the last will be 3-6:30). A full agenda for the 2024 program will be provided to accepted applicants.

Participants will also have an opportunity to attend a City Council meeting.

Overview

Participants will:

Meet department heads and staff
Learn how decisions are made, how city funds are allocated and how departments operate
Enjoy comprehensive overviews of departments and programs and services
Discover the current status and future plans for Victoria’s:
- Economic Development
- Emergency response services
- Environment / Keep Victoria Beautiful
- Public Works
- Library
- Victoria Main Street Program
- Parks & Recreation
- Tourism, and other important topics
Participate in lively discussions
Optional tours of city facilities
Become an informed, involved citizen

Applications

Any residents interested in learning about city operations or who have expressed opinions about city services, operations or governing are invited to attend. We accept up to 20 citizens as academy participants.

We have begun accepting applications to participate in the 2024 academy. The deadline to apply is Nov. 1.

The academy is free to Victoria residents 21 years and older.

APPLY TODAY!