City of Gastonia Accepting Applications for Municipal Government Citizens Academy

Deadline for Applications is November 12

Nine members of Citizens Academy in front of the Ladder 1 firetruck

Have you ever wondered how the City of Gastonia government works? Here’s your chance to learn about the inner-workings of your local government. Applications are being accepted for the 2022 Gastonia Municipal Government Citizens Academy until Friday, Dec. 3, 2021. The 11-week program is offered to interested citizens free of charge.

“We are excited to offer the Citizens Academy this year so that attendees can make a personal connection with City employees,” said Neighborhood Program Administrator Tyler Davis. “It’s also an opportunity for us to build a relationship with our citizens. And we want them to know if they have an issue we can help.” Oftentimes, participants are so excited about what they have learned that they become ambassadors for the City to their communities, said Davis.

WHEN:   Sessions start Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 5 p.m. and meet at 6 p.m. thereafter.

WHERE: Most sessions will be held at City Hall. Other locations will be announced.

The program starts at a City Council meeting on January 4, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. Each three-hour session includes presentations by City employees, hands-on activities, group discussions, facility tours, a police ride-along, and an opportunity to ask questions of City leaders and staff.

Participants will be required to wear a face mask and social distance during sessions.

Application forms are due by Nov. 12. More details are available on the Citizens Academy webpage.