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.

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:

  • 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

Citizens Academy April 2021

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 ControlPublic 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 Fall class is now closed. The next cycle of the Pasco County Citizens’ Academy will start on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. Classes will be held once a week (on a Wednesday, excluding the week of Spring Break) 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. Class size is limited to 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). 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.

What are you waiting for? Get Involved!

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Intergovernmental Affairs at (727) 847-2411, extension 8440.Like Us on Facebook Opens in new window