Civic Academy second cohort applications now available

In early 2025, the City of Renton held its first cohort of the Resident Civic Academy. The free program gave 35 residents a behind-the-scenes look at the basics of local government and the roles of our different departments. 

Participants toured city facilities, viewed demonstrations, engaged in real budget scenarios, shared feedback on long-range plans, and more. 

The goals of the program include:

• Increase knowledge of the role of local government and our governance structure. Understand what the city can and cannot take action on. 
• Increase awareness of city operations, decision-makers, and drivers.
• Increase number of community members serving as ambassadors to city services.
• Make city government easier to understand, more accessible, and where to source accurate information. 

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Civic Academy schedule

Next year, Civic Academy will meet on Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m. from January 22 to March 19, with a break on February 19. After the first 3-hour session, all remaining sessions will run for two hours, ending at 7:30 p.m. Locations will vary.

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Applications open through Monday, December 8. 

If you are interested in learning how the city operates and can commit to attending at least six out of the eight sessions, visit the city's website and apply!

Apply here