Citizens Academy

Do you consider yourself to be community minded? Are you interested in learning more about the inner workings of your city? If so, you may want to consider enrolling in the City’s 2025 Spring Citizens Academy. Classes begin in early January and are held from 6PM-8:30PM (with the exception of the first class which will be from 6PM-9PM) and run each Wednesday evening at varying locations within the city for nine weeks. Class size is limited to 30 participants.

“Citizens Academy is an amazing opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning more about our community on the whole. You get an in depth look at all the inner workings of not just the city government, but also all the outer arms of what keeps the city going. You get a first hand look at financing and budgeting, and all the city committees. How our law enforcement and first responders work within our boundaries and interact with city and other local municipalities. They cover the goings on of public works and water management as well the library and the process of holding and organizing community events. Aside from just all of the knowledge gained about the workings of the city itself, it is a great networking opportunity for anyone looking to engage with others in the community as well. I highly recommend everyone go to the classes! You won’t regret it!” – Jennifer Reznick, 2022 Inaugural Academy Graduate

“The Citizens Academy was a WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY to learn how our City runs, and you meet new people also! You will have a lot of respect for the people in each department who are so passionate about their jobs! It was an incredibly interesting behind the scenes adventure! I would recommend everyone take the Citizens Academy! It really makes you proud to be a New Port Richey Resident!” – Jean LeFebvre, 2022 Fall Academy Graduate

“After being a part of the Citizens Academy these last 9 weeks, it’s clearer than ever that we are surrounded by lots of good here in New Port Richey. Whether it be our exceptional facilities, programming, or staff, there’s a lot to be proud of. I think the average citizen might have some grasp of the potential we’re all a part of, but this program shines a light on just how many positive and productive things are happening here. Thanks again for the opportunity. I’ve really enjoyed it and I’ll certainly carry all I’ve learned forward as a dedicated and engaged member of the community.” – Kenie Huber Richards, 2023 Spring Academy Graduate

“Attending the Citizens Academy was a wonderful learning experience. Local city government affects my life the most and I’m thankful I got the opportunity to learn more about how our city operates. From maintaining infrastructure to budgeting, safety, and the CRA, I gained a great deal of knowledge and met a few new friends along the way.” – Robert Perry, 2024 Spring Academy Graduate

The Citizens Academy is an enjoyable and interactive program to inform citizens about how local government is organized as well as how services are funded and delivered. Program participants will be introduced to a variety of topics which include: Getting to Know Your City Council/Manager/Attorney/Clerk, Law Enforcement, Governmental Budgeting and Economic Development, Water & Wastewater Management, Fire Department and Emergency Management, Public Works and Utilities, Library, Planning and Land Use and Parks & Recreation.

2022 Inaugural Spring Academy participants received a tour at the Wastewater Treatment Facility class.

2022 Fall Academy participants conducted a mock City Council meeting.

2023 Spring Academy participants participated in a mock robbery and arrest on Law Enforcement night by processing for fingerprints on the suspect’s vehicle.

The amazing B Shift crew performed a full vehicle extrication at our Fire Department & Emergency Management class.

The program is also a great place to learn about becoming involved as a citizen who is interested and vested in the city’s future. The Citizens Academy is open to city residents ages 18 and up however non-residents may apply and be approved at the discretion of the City Manager. Please note that participants may be removed from the program at any time at the discretion of the City Manager. Applications may be downloaded hereopens in a new window and once completed should be submitted to City Clerk Judy Meyersopens in a new window. Registration for the 2025 Spring Academy will open later this year.

2025 Spring Academy

Class Schedule

TBD

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In banner photo from left to right the 2024 Spring Citizens Academy: Amber Geier, City Clerk Judy Meyers, Dora Cantwell, Pat Ammons, Richard Cantwell, Evie Chitty, Donald Cadle, Jr., Margaret Carswell, Robert Perry, Peggy Lybrook, Amanda Zborek, Judith Allen, Karie McAteer, former-Councilman Mike Peters.

Seated at the dais from left to right: City Manager Debbie L. Manns, Deputy Mayor Kelly Mothershead, Councilman Matt Murphy, Mayor Chopper Davis, Councilman Bertell Butler, IV and Councilman Peter Altman.

Participants not pictured: Ali Buckman, Keith Kijanka and Tina Gordon