Nevada City, CA – Nevada County’s Citizen’s Academy offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ins and outs of County government. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the people, places, and programs that make our County government work. Have you ever wondered how the County plans for emergencies, who develops the County’s annual budget, or what it’s like to serve time in our jail? This is your chance to ask those questions and more.

2023 Citizens Academy participants in a Q&A discussion with Supervisor Hardy Bullock Supervisor Ed Scofield and CEO Alison Lehman during the final session
2023 Citizens Academy participants in a Q&A discussion with Supervisor Hardy Bullock Supervisor Ed Scofield and CEO Alison Lehman during the final session

“Understanding how local government operates and responds to the needs of our community has never been more important,” said County Executive Officer Alison Lehman. “Democracy requires an informed and engaged community. Our Citizen’s Academy program connects community members who have a desire to learn with leaders from across the County organization. Participants will leave with both a high-level view of County operations and an in- depth understanding of how our programs and services work together to create a thriving community.”

Participants will tour eight County facilities and learn from over twenty department presentations covering a wide range of services from A (Agriculture) to Z (Zoning).

2023 Citizens Academy graduating class
2023 Citizens Academy graduating class
Community Development Agency Director Trisha Tillotson showing the 2023 Citizens Academy class around Nevada Countys Operations Center where many public works services operate out of
CDA Director Trisha Tillotson showing the 2023 Citizens Academy class around Nevada County’s Operations Center
2023 Citizens Academy viewing the Sheriffs' Incident Command Vehicle during the public safety session
2023 Citizens Academy viewing the Sheriff’s Incident Command Vehicle during the public safety session

“Citizen’s Academy was one of the best, most robust, internal look at our county’s government,” said Nicole McNeely, who was in last year’s Citizen’s Academy. “Not only were the directors of each department great public speakers, but I have since established a personal connection with some of them, which has aided in the work we do as a nonprofit. I walked away feeling proud of our local leadership and impressed with the philosophy of our local government. I use my class binder as a reference for things all the time. I would highly recommend that every adult in our area apply to this Academy and become informed members of society.”

“Citizens Academy is a must for any citizens that wants to understand the workings of this outstanding county. We all know how great it is, and now you know why it is so great,” added 2023 participant Gil Mathews.

Citizen’s Academy takes place on ten consecutive Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7:30 p.m. from September 17 to November 19. Participation is free, and a simple meal is provided at each session.

Go to nevadacountyca.gov/citizensacademy for more information or to apply online. Applications are due by Sunday, July 14, at 5 p.m. Interviews will be held in early August.