Citizen's Academy is an excellent way to educate residents, build positive relationships and increase communication between city government officials and citizens, as well as inspire future municipal leaders.
Weekly Session Information
Session 1: Getting to know your city
A brief history of St. Augustine and the fundamentals of city government. Welcome remarks by Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline and other city leadership.
Session 2: Examining safety and security in the city
Get an inside look at the St. Augustine Police Department and St. Augustine Fire Department. Tours will be provided by our Chiefs, and you will meet some of our front-line first responders.
Session 3: Understanding Utilities & Public Works
Be prepared to walk through our treatment plants – Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment – and our Solid Waste Department. From clean drinking water, to flushing your toilet, to recycling. Where does it all go? Other discussion topics include GIS, Environmental Compliance, Stormwater, Streets & Grounds, and Meter Maintenance.
Session 4: Exploring the nuts and bolts of Planning, Building and Development
Tour the 4th Floor of City Hall and learn about the many facets of the Planning & Building Department, including Code Enforcement, Historic Preservation, and our volunteer citizen boards (Planning and Zoning Board, Corridor Review Committee, and Historic Architectural Review Board).
Other discussion topics include Community Outreach, Engineering and Development, Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Resilience, and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Session 5: Conservation Program and Environmental Services
Walking Tours of Fish Island Preserve and Conservation Properties
Session 6: Discovering other city services
While taking a tour of the Downtown Historic Parking Facility, the Visitor Information Center and the Municipal Marina, we will look at the challenges of Mobility and Parking This day will include our IT Department and a discussion about current innovative technology and cybersecurity initiatives.
Session 7: City Commission Graduation
Upon completion of all Citizens’ Academy sessions, the City Commission will present the class with a Certificate of Completion and program lapel pin.
