/ Citizens Academy

City of Gulf Breeze Citizens Academy 

 

Discover How Your City Works – From the Inside Out

The Gulf Breeze Citizens Academy is a free, 8-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 led by Mayor JB Schluter, former Mayor Cherry Fitch, and City Manager Samantha Abell — plus City department heads.
  • 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: 8 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 ← (Insert actual link)

Curriculum Schedule

August 7
Introduction to the Academy, City Finances, Budget, and Five-Year Strategic Plan
📍 City Hall

August 21
City Services Overview & Organizational Structure
📍 City Hall

September 4
Fire Department & Police Station (Facility Tours)
📍 On Site

September 18
Parks & Recreation (Facility Tour)
📍 On Site

October 2
Community Services, City Clerk, and IT Department
📍 City Hall

October 16
Public Services (Water/Sewer, Natural Gas, and Natural Resources), Program Wrap-Up
📍 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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