Applications Open For Concord Community Academy

CONCORD, CA — The City of Concord is accepting applications for the Spring 2024 session of the Concord Community Academy — a program designed for people who wish to learn more about the city where they live, work, or own a business.

Academy participants meet elected officials and staff to gain insight into how the city operates. They also take part in discussions with fellow community members during the academy which consists of six classes.

The Spring 2024 Academy is from April 13 to May 11 and participants must be able to attend all class sessions. Three classes are held on Saturdays during the day; the other three take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays. At the first meeting, city staff will present an introduction to local government, then will take participants on a bus tour of the city which includes a stop for lunch.

Attendees will go on to learn about an array of topics including public safety, the former Naval Weapons Station base reuse plan, economic development efforts, recreation services, public works, budgeting and finance, city planning, and the development review process. The final class on Saturday, May 11 will conclude with a tour of the former Naval Weapons Station, a wrap-up, and a graduation certificate presentation.

"Not only do you get to network with like-minded residents and have a genuinely nice time together, you learn so much about Concord and where you can get involved," said Dena Acosta-Beere, a graduate of the Fall 2023 Academy. "Every session taught me something new about our city, and the behind-the-scenes access to places like the former Concord Naval Weapons Station and the police department was thrilling. City staff and officials are so lovely and generous, and now I feel I have friends throughout our local government."

The academy is free to attend; however, space is limited. Applicants must be at least 18 or older and must live, work, or own a business in Concord.

The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Friday, March 8. Visit cityofconcord.org/Academy to learn more.