PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The City of Pittsfield is now accepting applications for the Citizens Academy, set to begin in late August.
The 12-week program is designed to help community members better understand local government operations.
The Citizens Academy aims to educate participants on the various functions of city departments, offering tours of designated locations and engaging in breakout activities. Attendees will also learn about service opportunities within the local government.
“We have seen continuous growth of this academy throughout the years and 95 community members who have participated to date,” said Catherine VanBramer, director of administrative services. “Community engagement is a vital part of my role with the city, and it is my hope that we encourage more members of our community to actively participate in their government. I look forward to welcoming a new class for the sixth year of the academy.”
Class size is limited to 25 participants, with sessions scheduled for Wednesday evenings from August 21 to November 6, between 6-8 p.m. Sessions will take place at various locations throughout the city. During the sessions, participants will interact with department heads and other city staff to learn about daily operations, tour various workspaces, and engage in breakout activities.
Eligibility requirements include being at least 18 years old, living or working in Pittsfield, and committing to attend each of the 12-week sessions to the best of their ability.
Session topics vary annually but typically cover:
- Overview of Municipal Government
- City Council and School Committee
- Police and Fire Departments
- Department of Public Services & Utilities
- Community Development
- City Clerk
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Airport
- Cultural Development
- Berkshire Athenaeum
- Human Resources
- Health Department & Building Inspectors
- Finance & Information Technology
- Building Maintenance
- Council on Aging, RSVP & Veterans Services
Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate and be publicly recognized for their participation.
For more information and to apply, visit the city’s Citizens Academy webpage. Applications can be submitted online or via mail, with paper copies available at the Mayor’s Office in City Hall, located at 70 Allen Street. The application deadline is 4 p.m. on Friday, July 26.
For any additional information, you can contact the Mayor’s Office at (413) 499-9322 or email Catherine VanBramer at cvanbramer@cityofpittsfield.org .
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