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Bismarck Citizen Academy
The Bismarck Citizen Academy is a 12-week program designed to broaden knowledge of city operations and enhance understanding of how city government brings these services to its residents and community. The program will provide participants with an in-depth, hands-on, behind-the-scenes experience, focusing on knowledge, engagement, transparency and communication:
- The Citizen Academy class will be 20 participants consisting of residents, business owners or students in Bismarck.
- 17 City departments will be showcased. Tours to a variety of municipal facilities will be provided.
- Participants will learn how to become more involved in local government advisory boards, commissions and other opportunities for civic engagement.
- Opportunities will be provided to connect with community leaders including the Mayor, City Commissioners, Department Directors and staff with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences in local government operations.
Program Goals
- Knowledge: Participants will gain an understanding of municipal government while learning more about the operations and the City of Bismarck as an organization. Participants will understand what is needed to operate an organization that provides services to nearly 75,000 residents and over 5,000 businesses.
- Engagement: The City of Bismarck will provide a program that improves communications and relationships with our residents, business owners, students, and community organizations. Participants will learn how to become more involved in local government advisory boards, commissions, and other opportunities for involvement. The program will provide a learning experience for those interested in serving to help guide this community toward our goals through an elected leadership position or other City-related activities.
- Communication: City of Bismarck elected officials and department experts will offer a unique perspective into the daily operations of the organization. The program will enhance communications and relationships with our residents, business owners, and students. Opportunities will be provided to connect with community leaders including the Mayor, City Commissioners, and Department Directors with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences in local government operations. Participants and City officials will create relationships that encourage better communication and engagement with local government.
- Government Excellence: The City of Bismarck’s Strategic Plan identifies a strategic objective for government excellence. This unique approach to municipal education is the first of its kind in North Dakota and encourages public trust and engagement through transparency of operations.