Apply now for second annual Citizens Academy

The Town of Wake Forest is now accepting applications for its second annual Citizen’s Academy. The online application is available at www.wakeforestnc.gov/citizens-academy through Friday, July 14.
The Wake Forest Citizen’s Academy is a seven-week course designed to offer participants an educational and interactive experience on the workings of Town government. The curriculum will cover current Wake Forest programs, services, and procedures, and offer an inside look at several departments, including Public Works, Police, Fire, Communications, Finance, Planning, Engineering, Wake Forest Power, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources, the Renaissance Centre, and Downtown Development.
(Editor’s note: This is the year when we will elect three town commissioners. The academy would be an excellent way for any candidates who have not served in a local elected office to learn about the town and be more prepared if elected. There are now three announced candidates: first-term Commissioner Adam Wright, Joe Kimray and Faith Cross. She announced in the May 17, 2023 edition of the Gazette. First-term commissioners Jim Dyer and Chad Sary have not announced their plans as yet.)
Led by Town staff, each weekly session will take place at a different Town facility. The final session will include a graduation ceremony and reception.
“Our goal is to provide participants with a foundation of knowledge regarding town government programs and services,” said Strategic Performance Manager Lisa Hayes. “We believe this foundation, cultivated through interaction with Town staff, will serve to create a stronger, more informed community.”
The 2023 Citizens Academy will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays from September 7 to October 19. A light meal will be provided with each session beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a Wake Forest resident or business owner. Due to the interactive nature of the course, the academy is limited to 25 participants. To graduate, participants must attend at least five of seven sessions.
The application deadline is Friday, July 14. Selected applicants will be notified no later than Friday, July 21. For more information, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/citizens-academy or email Lisa Hayes at lhayes@wakeforestnc.gov.
Please Note: Wake Forest Planning 101 (formerly known as the Citizens Planning Academy) is a separate learning opportunity that focuses on the Town’s planning processes and practices. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/WFPlanning101.
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