By-Line: Karen Callahan, Flagler County Communications and Engagement Manager
Registration is open for the upcoming Flagler County Citizens’ Academy that will be held on Wednesday mornings beginning March 12, and officials invite residents to treat themselves to an enriching educational experience. The course is designed to introduce participants to the day-to-day operations of Flagler County government, inclusive of its elected Constitutional Officers.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents to learn about the responsibilities and operations of our county departments and because the classes are held at a variety of county facilities, participants experience first-hand the broad range of resources and capabilities that Flagler County provides,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Supporting and encouraging resident participation in the citizen’s academy is essential to engaging with our community to foster a deeper understanding of civic responsibilities, governance structures, and the policymaking process.”
The academy will be held on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and will wrap up with a Monday morning Board of County Commissioners Roundtable at 8:30 a.m. June 2, followed by graduation.
“This academy provides a platform for citizens to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of local government. It encourages active involvement, informed discourse, and collaborative problem-solving,” Petito said.
The slated agenda is as follows:
- March 12 – Get to Know Your County Government | Human Resources | Veterans Affairs
- March 19 – Tourism, Economic Development & Culture | Flagler County History
- March 26 – Flagler Executive Airport
- April 2 – Library System and Programs | Growth Management, Planning, and Compliance
- April 9 – Health and Human Services Programs | Florida Department of Health-Flagler
- April 16 – General Services (Parks, Fleet, Facilities, Transit, Land Management)
- April 23 – Emergency Management | Fire Rescue
- April 30 – Agricultural Extension | Engineering & Public Works
- May 7 – Innovative Technology | Finance
- May 14 – Sheriff’s Office | Tax Collector | School District
- May 21 – Clerk of the Courts | Property Appraiser | Supervisor of Elections
- May 28 – Regional Agency Round Table | Wrap-up
- Monday, 8:30 a.m. June 2 – Flagler County Board of County Commissioners Round Table | Graduation
For more information and to register, go to www.FlaglerCounty.gov/Academy. Registrants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis for those residents able to attend all sessions.
