Estes Park, CO Citizen's Information Academy (CIA)

Type: Program

Status: Ongoing

Source File: http://www.estesnet.com/Administration/WhatsNew/CitizensAcademy.aspx

Description:

The Town of Estes Park is growing, and so is the need for its community members to learn about local government and how they can take part in shaping their Town’s future. Five years ago the Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees and staff developed a Citizens Information Academy (CIA) program for this purpose. The program was so successful that the Town plans to offer it again in 2007. The Academy’s role is to provide an educational opportunity to help the public become familiar with how local government works, and to encourage participation in local government.

Topics include the Town finance and budgeting, Police and Fire, Planning and Zoning, Municipal Court, water rights, and much more. Participants tour Town shops and hear the “inside scoop” on the challenges and rewards of serving as a Town Trustee.

A maximum of 25 people will be accepted into the program. Applicants must be 18 or over. Those living beyond Town limits are eligible to participate; however, priority will be given to in-Town residents. The Town of Estes Park does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disabilities. There is no cost to participate.

Members of the Academy’s pilot program have given it rave reviews. “The sessions were extremely well planned and interesting, with a variety of Town staff taking time to prepare and participate,” commented one. “This forum is the most effective way for citizens to rapidly get the information they need to be involved with their government,” said another.