/ Citizens Academy

City of Gulf Breeze Citizens Academy (Next Academy Fall 2026)

 

Discover How Your City Works – From the Inside Out

The Gulf Breeze Citizens Academy is a free, 6-week course designed to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at how city government functions and contributes to our community’s quality of life. Through interactive, two-hour sessions, participants engage directly with City officials, tour facilities, and explore the roles of various departments.

Whether you’re curious about how budgets are made or considering future involvement on a board or committee, the Citizens Academy is your pathway to becoming a more informed and engaged community member.

Why Join?

  • Meet City Leaders
    Participate in sessions hosted by Mayor JB Schluter and prior Mayor Cherry Fitch, and taught by the City Manager and City Department Directors 
  • Hands-On Learning
    Experience guided tours of key facilities and take part in a “think tank” environment where your ideas for Gulf Breeze are welcome.
  • Understand the Big Picture
    Learn how each City department contributes to the services, safety, and sustainability of Gulf Breeze.

Program Details

  • Duration: 6 weeks (semi-monthly sessions)
  • Schedule: Thursday, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
  • Class Size: Limited to 12 participants
  • Eligibility: Must be a Gulf Breeze resident, age 18 or older
  • Application Deadline: July 25 (close of business)
  • Notification of Acceptance: On or about August 1
  • Apply Here: Submit your application

Curriculum Schedule


Introduction by City Manager – Overview of local government, City Finances, Budget, and Five-Year Strategic Plan
📍 City Hall


City Governance:  Insights by Mayor JB Schluter and Prior Mayor Cherry Fitch 
📍 City Hall


Fire Department & Police Station (Facility Tours) – Hosted by Prior Mayor Cherry Fitch
📍 On Site


Parks & Recreation (Facility Tour) – Hosted by Mayor JB Schluter
📍 On Site


Community Services – Hosted by Prior Mayor Cherry Fitch
📍 City Hall


Public Works (Water/Sewer, Natural Gas, and Natural Resources), Program Wrap-Up – Hosted by Mayor JB Schluter
📍 City Hall

Objective

To educate and engage residents on how Gulf Breeze city government operates—and to prepare interested citizens for future participation in boards, task forces, and committees.

Ready to Get Involved?

Submit an application using the above link or contact Stephanie Lucas, Administrative Services Director
📞 850.934.5115
✉️ [email protected]

 

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