Inform yourself at Cincinnati's Citizens Government Academy

Starting March 10, Cincinnati's second Citizens Government Academy will give 30 local residents an in-depth look at the inner workings of their public servants.

The nine-week program, which will be taught by leadership from the Office of the City Manager, will provide keen insights into how city services are funded and delivered, and will include field trips such as visits to parks, visits to the sewer district works and ride-alongs with the police.

Time will also be spent dissecting the city budget, a document whose intricacies many fail to understand, according to Meg Olberding of the City Manager's office.

"For example, there has been a lot of talk about the streetcar," she said.  "People ask, 'Why can't we spend that money on schools?'  Because we can't!"

Olberding believes that informed citizens make better citizens.

"The City Manager established the academy because it's really important that, as city governments have to make tougher choices, citizens help guid those decisions," she said.

This free peek at city government is free of charge, but is limited to 30 participants.  Applications are due March 4 and can be obtained by calling Trina Porter at 352-5335, e-mailing [email protected], downloading at http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/noncms/cmgr/2008CGAApp.cfm or by visiting Suite 104 at City Hall.

Another nine-week course will be offered this fall.

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Meg Olberding, Office of the City Manager, City of Cincinnati