WHEAT RIDGE — The city of Wheat Ridge is re-launching its program for residents interested in learning how their city government really works.
The Wheat Ridge Civic Academy was canceled last year due to lack of interest, but city officials are hoping some changes will attract more participation this year, said Nathan Mosley, a city spokesman.
The 2013 academy will take place from 5:30-9 p.m. on four consecutive Tuesdays in October, starting Oct. 8 and ending Oct. 29.
The deadline to register is Sept. 13. At least 12 people must sign up for the academy to be held, Mosley said.
“(City government) can feel a little overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. We don’t want it to be that way,” Mosley said. “This is a good way to introduce people to the overall organization and how things work.”
Chief among the changes to the academy is a new leadership training session that will focus on resilience in tough times.
The city also hopes the shorter time commitment — previous iterations were 13 weeks long or two full Saturdays — will also be more attractive to residents, Mosley said.
Over the course of four weeks, academy participants will learn about the role of the mayor and city council; how the city encourages economic vitality and good governance; transportation, recreation and development; and public safety.
“Hopefully we’re building those community advocates who want to take on a role in a board or commission or run for office,” Mosley said. “It’s important for citizens to be engaged in their local government.”
Applications for the academy are available online at . For more information, contact Mosley at 303-235-2867 or nmosley@ ci.wheatridge.co.us.
The Wheat Ridge Police Department also holds an annual citizens academy focused on the inner workings of law enforcement. The next 12-week police academy starts in February, said John Romero, a department spokesman.
Emilie Rusch: 303-954-2457, erusch@denverpost.com or twitter.com/emilierusch
