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, department directors and 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.

Citizens Academy word graphic

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:

  • Improving citizens’ understanding of local government.
  • Developing citizens’ understanding of their role in government.
  • Developing a pool of knowledgeable individuals to act as ambassadors, serve on advisory boards, and volunteer.

Citizens' Academy Class of 2019 Graduation

2019 Citizens Academy 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
County Administration
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 next cycle of the Pasco County Citizens’ Academy will start on Wednesday, September 16, 2020. Classes will be held once a week (on every Wednesday, excluding Thanksgiving week) from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The sessions willl be held at several locations throughout Pasco County, including the West Pasco Government Center, the Historic Pasco County Courthouse, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the Pasco County Jail, and other facilities.

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. The application window is open until August 10. Accepted applicants will be notified of their acceptance in mid-August. 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 receipt of the form and ID, our office will send the request for background check to the Sheriff’s Office for processing.  

Pasco Sheriff’s Office Background Check Form (PDF). If you have questions, please email or call our Program Manager below. 

Email Johanna Rodriguez, Program Manager
Intergovernmental Affairs
8731 Citizens Dr., Suite 350
New Port Richey, FL 34654
Phone: 727-847-2411, Extension 8440

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.

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If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Intergovernmental Affairs at (727) 847-2411, extension 8440.