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Citizens' Academy
Would you like to know more about how the County’s budget is developed, how the County is structured, or the basic functions of Pasco County’s Constitutional Officers and administrative departments? Pasco County is now offering its Citizens’ Academy twice a year! Once in the fall and once in the winter, to provide citizens with better options to be able to learn more about their county government.
What is the Pasco County Citizens’ Academy?
Pasco County Citizens’ Academy is an interactive program that focuses on educating citizens about the County’s governmental operations. Elected officials, state agency partners and department directors, as well as other county staff will host unique and informative sessions designed to give citizens hands-on experience in county government operations. Join other citizens who help keep our community strong by actively participating in County affairs.
The Citizens’ Academy is a series of professionally-led workshop sessions designed to familiarize citizens with Pasco County government and the services it provides. It is an educational experience that will give participants insight into the county’s governmental process through a three-step process to:
- Improve citizens’ understanding of local government.
- Increase citizens’ knowledge of their role in government.
- Develop a pool of well informed individuals to act as ambassadors, serve on advisory boards, and volunteer.
Citizens' Academy Class of 2021 Graduation
What Topics Will Be Offered?
| Overview of the Legislative/Administrative Branch | Office of Management and Budget |
| Overview of the County Attorney’s Office | Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources |
| Building Inspections | Planning and Development |
| Clerk of Court & Comptroller | Property Appraiser |
| Code Compliance | Public Safety |
| Community Services | Public Services |
| Mosquito Control | Public Works |
| Development Services | School Board |
| Emergency Management | Sheriff Public Safety |
| Fire Rescue | Supervisor of Elections Public Services |
| Internal Services | Tax Collector |
| Libraries | Public Infrastructure |
When and Where Are the Classes Offered?
The application window for the Winter/Spring 2022 class that starts in January is now closed. The next cycle of the Pasco County Citizens’ Academy will start in the fall of 2022 in September. Classes will be held once a week (on a Wednesday, excluding the week of Thanksgiving) from 4:00 p.m. to approximately 7:00 p.m. A class schedule will be provided upon acceptance and as part of your program packet on the first session.
Who May Attend?
Anyone who lives or works in Pasco County, and who is at least 18 years of age. Anyone willing and able to attend at least 8 out of 10 sessions.
How to Apply?
Applications can be completed via our online form. Opens a New Window Class size is limited to approximately 25 participants. As part of your application, a background check is required, as well as a copy of your state identification or driver’s license. A fillable version of the Sheriff’s Office background check form is available via the below link. Please submit all documents to our office via this secure upload link. Upon receiving the form and ID, our office will confirm receipt, and send the request for background check to the Sheriff’s Office for processing.
Pasco Sheriff’s Office Background Check Form (PDF) Opens a New Window. . If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact County Administration at 727-847-8115.
Is There a Charge for the Program?
The Academy is offered free of charge to all participants. Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion and be recognized at a Board of County Commission meeting.