Register now for the 5th Annual Citizens Municipal Academy Announced

October 01, 2012

The 5th annual Citizens Municipal Academy “Government-ology 101” will commence on October 18 and run through December 4, 2012. The Academy is a public information program that gives citizens insight into city services and function of city departments. The program includes the function of city departments, gives an overview of the budgetary process and provides an outlet for citizen input. Sessions are hosted each Thursday evening beginning at 6PM and lasting for 2 ½ to 3 hours. The academy is free, and acceptance into the academy is on a first-come basis up to the capacity of 15. Deadline for registration is Friday, October 12, 2012. To register, please go on-line to www.bristoltn.org/cma.cfm and complete the form electronically and submit or print out the application and mail to: Citizens Municipal Academy, Bristol Tennessee City Hall, 801 Anderson St. Bristol, Tennessee 37620 or pick up an application at the City Manager’s Office in Room 201 inside City Hall at 801 Anderson Street or at the Bristol Public Library. If you have questions on the academy please call Terrie Talbert @ 423-764-4171 or e-mail at tsmith-talbert@bristoltn.org.

“The dates have been moved up earlier in the season this year. Previously our academy was hosted during the winter months, but we felt that fall was just a better time of year for most,” said Terrie Talbert, Director of Community Relations for the city and the academy’s coordinator. “We have had several citizens go through the academy only to go on to serve on many of the city’s boards and commissions and even some who serve on the City Council,” continued Talbert. The academy is set in a relaxed environment, with light snacks and drinks offered during each session. Each session has a different topic and presenter(s) and is hosted at various locations throughout the city.

“For most people civic lessons were given in middle or high school and beyond that there is not a lot of opportunity for residents, especially adults, to quickly learn how their government functions or about the many services the city offers,” Talbert said. “Through citizens’ academies, Bristol residents can learn about their city, how the city improves the quality of their daily life and their city’s commitment to its citizens. This is an excellent public outreach program and another way to encourage future city leaders.”