What does it mean to be a civically involved in Aurora? It means being part of one of the most international and dynamic cities around. It means being engaged with neighbors, leaders and businesses to guide a solid community.
In its desire to encourage responsible citizenship and understanding between the city government and the residents it serves, the Aurora City Council formed the Aurora Civic Engagement Academy in 2016. The eight-session academy is designed to provide residents with a complete overview of city government, citizens’ participation and the opportunities that exist for citizen involvement.
Come learn what it means to have a city government based on the Core 4 values of integrity, respect, professionalism and customer service.
Watch Council Member Angela Lawson speak about the Aurora Civic Engagement Academy
Watch fall 2017's academy participate in a Mock Council Meeting
Classes
The Aurora Civic Engagement Academy is split into eight class sessions, meeting once a month on Thursdays from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at various locations around the city. Class dates are:
March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18, Aug. 15, Sept. 21 (Saturday), Oct. 17
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the class locations.
Graduation
Upon completion of the academy, participants, family and friends are invited to attend a reception and graduation ceremony at the Aurora Municipal Center.
Qualifications
Applicants must be residents of the city of Aurora. The minimum age for participants is 14. Selection is on a first-come, first-served basis until the maximum class size is reached.
Cost
The fee is $15 per participant. Fees are due upon acceptance in the program. Scholarships are available (email citizensacademy@auroragov.org for details).
What You Can Expect to Learn
- Different levels and forms of government
- Aurora’s council/manager government structure
- Duties and responsibilities of elected officials
- Overview of city departments and services
- Role of HOAs and other neighborhood groups
- How citizen boards and commissions can influence policy
- Steps for a proposed ordinance to become law
- City council meeting process
- Importance of the budget
View the course outline.
Email citizensacademy@auroragov.org or call 303.739.7015 for more information about the Aurora Civic Engagement Academy.