Registration Open For New Lenox Citizens' Academy

NEW LENOX, IL — Those curious about how New Lenox runs can get a look behind the scenes, with an 8-week citizens' academy kicking off in September.

Over eight weeks, residents will meet the people who keep the Village thriving, from public works and police to parks, fire, school, and library districts. It’s a hands-on, eye-opening experience designed to build stronger connections between the Village and the community it serves.

The deadline to apply is Sept. 1; 15 minimum participants are required.

The program takes participants through the inner workings of each taxing district within New Lenox. Each session features tours and insights from a different department or district, offering insights into everything from strategic planning and infrastructure to emergency services and community development, the Village said.

If you’ve ever wondered exactly where your tax dollars go and how all the different governmental bodies function and work together, this is a unique, hands-on way to learn about the Village and the community it serves, the Village said.

The sessions take place Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m., and run from September 2 until October 21. Each week features a different department or district, and the program concludes with a Recognition Ceremony. The program is free, but participants should be available to attend all sessions.

Residents can find the application online.

The civic program kicks off on September 2 at Village Hall with an introduction from Mayor Baldermann, followed by a session on Village administration, covering topics like the Village Board, strategic planning, and budgeting.

• On September 9, the group meets at the Fire Protection District, where they will learn about department history, structure, take a tour of the fire station, and participate in equipment demonstrations.
• On September 16, attention shifts to New Lenox Community Park District to learn about the Park Board, upcoming projects, recreational programs, funding, and collaborations with local schools, followed by a park tour.
• The September 23 session features New Lenox School District 122 and Lincoln-Way District 210, with discussions on district operations, partnerships, school history, and finances.
• On September 30, the group visits the New Lenox Public Library to explore services, renovation plans, funding, and volunteer opportunities.
• The October 7 session at the Police Department includes an operational overview, a “Touch a Truck” event, equipment demos, a K9 visit, and a station tour.
• October 14 highlights Public Works, with insights into seasonal programs, capital improvements, and how services impact residents directly, capped with a facility tour.
• On October 21, the group visits the KidsWork Children’s Museum to learn about Community Development and Engagement, covering economic development, planning, engineering, building permits, zoning boards, and special events.

The program concludes with a Recognition Ceremony, celebrating participants’ involvement and learning throughout the series.

Additional questions can be directed to Alaina Murphy at amurphy@newlenox.net, or call (815)462-6417.