Citizens Academy

Citizens Academy is a free, hands-on, interactive public information program that allows citizens an insight into City services and the functions of City departments. The class size in limited to the first 30 residents that sign-up because of the interactive nature of the program.

The Citizens Academy program consists of six (6), two (2) hour evening sessions, on the same day each week.

All sessions, unless otherwise noted, are from 6-8 p.m. and will be held in the City Commission Chambers at City Hall, 228 South Massachusetts Avenue (arrive a little early to enjoy pizza and refreshments). During the course, several sessions will meet away from City Hall.

2022 Citizens Academy Session Schedule:

Week 1 (February 24): History & Finance
Week 2 (March 3): Lakeland Police Department at Police Station
Week 3 (March 10): Lakeland Fire Department at Fire Station One
Week 4 (March 17): Public Works; Planning at Solid Waste
Week 5 (March 31): Utility Services
Week 6 (April 7): Parks & Recreation & Graduation
Week 7 (April 14): Lakeland Linder Airport & Graduation

Lakeland’s Citizens Academy is a free public information program. The purpose of the Citizens Academy is to familiarize citizens in the community with Lakeland’s City government. The program will include the function of City departments, explain the relationship between the City Commission and City Administration, allow an overview of the budgetary process and it will provide an outlet for citizen input. The Citizens Academy is an interactive program that is open to anyone interested.

All participants interested in the Citizens Academy are encouraged to attend all of the sessions in order to get the most from the program. The Citizens Academy is a hands-on experience that will allow Lakeland residents to get a behind the scenes look of how city government operates. The class will graduate with a certificate in “Governmentology” and a key to the city at the end of the last session.

Sign Up

If you are interested in signing up for the next Citizens Academy or would like more information on the program, please contact:

Kevin Cook
Director of Communications
Ph: 863.834.6264
Email