Chelsea has launched its first ever Chelsea Civic Leadership Academy, a new 11-week educational program designed to give residents an inside look and deeper understanding of how local government works.
The City is now accepting applications for the program’s first cohort of 20 students through its municipal website at Chelseama.gov. The deadline to apply is noon on Friday, August 14.
“Our Civic Leadership Academy is about building a more informed and engaged Chelsea,” said City Manager Fidel Maltez. “The more our residents understand how their local government works, the more likely they are to meaningfully participate in it; whether that means attending a public meeting, serving on a board or commission, or simply making their voice heard.”
The curriculum for the Civic Leadership Academy will be hands-on and is designed to introduce participants to the departments, people, and processes that keep Chelsea running. Residents will hear directly from city staff and leadership about how decisions are made, and how services are delivered from a range of departments, including but not limited to budget and grants administration, public safety departments, housing and community development, public works, and human resources.
Classes will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. from September 10 through November 12. Classes will take place at City Hall as well as the City Yard, Central Fire Station, Police Station, Senior Center, and the Chelsea Public Library, giving participants a firsthand look at where and how City services are delivered. Graduation will take place Tuesday, November 17 at Chelsea City Hall. Childcare will be provided for participants on an as needed basis, and classes will be taught in English, with interpretation available.