Pasco County BOCC congratulates its 2018 Citizens’ Academy graduates! The interactive program educates citizens about County governmental operations. Elected officials, department directors and staff host informative sessions that give hands-on experience providing citizens the opportunity to learn more about their county government. Pasco County Citizens’ Academy is an interactive program that focuses on educating citizens about the County’s governmental operations. Elected officials, department directors and other county staff will host unique and informative sessions designed to give citizens hands-on experience in county government operations. The Citizens’ Academy is a series of professionally-led workshop sessions designed to familiarize citizens with Pasco County government and the services it provides. It is an educational experience that will give participants insight into the county’s governmental process through a three-step process to improving citizens’ understanding of local government, developing citizens’ understanding of their role in government and developing a pool of knowledgeable individuals to act as ambassadors, serve on advisory boards, and volunteer.

Topics offered and overview of County/City Government, Office of Management and Budget, Historic Overview of Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, Building Inspections, Planning and Development, Clerk of Court & Comptroller, Property Appraiser, Code Compliance, Public Safety, Community Services, Public Services, County Administration, Public Works, Development Services, School Board, Emergency Management, Sheriff Public Safety, Fire Rescue, Supervisor of Elections Public Services, Internal Services, Tax Collector, Libraries and Public Infrastructure.

When and Where Are the Classes Offered?

The next cycle of the Pasco County Citizens’ Academy will take place during the Fall of 2018. Classes will be held each Thursday, tentatively, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at several locations throughout Pasco County, including the West Pasco Government Center, the Hudson Regional Library, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the Pasco County Jail, and other facilities. A copy of the schedule will become available during the Spring of 2018.

The Academy is offered free of charge to all participants. Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion and be recognized at a Board of County Commission meeting. Anyone who lives or works in Pasco County, and who is at least 18 years of age and is willing and able to attend at least 8 out of 10 sessions can apply.