Applications Now Open For Concord Community Academy

CONCORD, CA— The City of Concord is accepting applications for the Fall 2023 session of the Concord Community Academy — a program designed for people who live, work or own a business in Concord to learn more about the City. Academy participants take part in discussions and activities with fellow community members, and meet elected officials and staff, to gain insight into how the city operates.

“The Concord Community Academy is a great way to meet city staff and elected officials and learn how you can get involved in your community,” said Spring 2023 Academy graduate Gina Gotsill. “City staff put a lot of thought and energy into the classes, and each one is interesting and super interactive. I felt like any question I had about how the city runs was welcomed and encouraged.”

For the Fall 2023 Academy, six classes will be held from Sept. 23 to Oct. 21 and participants must be able to attend all classes. The first and last classes will be held on Saturdays during the day, while the remaining four classes will be held Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. At the first meeting, staff will present an introduction to local government, followed by a bus tour of the city and lunch.

Participants will learn about an array of topics including public safety, the Concord Naval Weapons Station reuse plan, economic development efforts, recreation services, public works, budgeting and finance, city planning, and the development review process. The final class on Saturday, Oct. 21 will conclude with a tour of the former Concord Naval Weapons Station, a wrap-up, and a graduation certificate presentation.

The program is free and open to applicants ages 18 years and older who live, work, or own a business in Concord. Space is limited.

The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Friday, July 28. For more information or to apply online, visit cityofconcord.org/Academy.