Madison holds ‘Civic Awareness Academy:’ A program allowing people to meet city officials, voice concerns, and ask questions
MADISON, Ala (WHNT) — If you’ve ever had questions you’ve wanted answered, criticism you felt the need to give, or wanted a name to a face when it comes to your city leaders, then there is a program for you.
It’s known as the “Civic Awareness Academy” and is entering its second session in the City of Madison this fall.
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“So much of municipal government seems unreachable by people, and this is a way to really engage and get involved in your local government,” said Samantha Magnuson.
The program offers a unique opportunity for a behind-the-scenes look at the people and reasoning behind the decisions made in the area.
“They might have unanswered questions, they might be frustrated, they might, be happy with their local government, but just want to engage more,” she said. So, this is a perfect opportunity to get in, get involved and learn more.”
Stacey Tidwell just graduated from Madison’s first program in May.
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“When you’re trying to work and raise children, you don’t have time to give back to your community,” Tidwell said. “So, when the opportunity presented itself to, be a part of this, to apply for it, then it made a lot of sense for me.”
She said the experience creates an “ease of access” to your city officials.
“You sat down with each representative for a certain amount of time, and there were only 4 or 5 people at your table,” she said. “So, you had plenty of time and opportunities to ask anything you wanted to, and they were amenable to any question. It was an open book.”
She added that she genuinely looked forward to attending the class.
“It was really something I looked forward to,” she said. “I just didn’t imagine an educational opportunity of the city’s inner workings would be as exciting as it was, but you learn so much and you meet the people behind the scenes, and you meet the personalities and you get a connection.”
Tidwell said she recommends the experience to anyone able to apply, as it made her a more involved, proud citizen.
You can apply for the civic awareness academy here.
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