City Government Academy - Next Session: April 2025

Where Community Residents and Local Government Unite!

What is a City Government Academy?

The City of Grand Rapids Government Academy is a free, 9 week program designed for residents who want to increase their knowledge about city government operations and have a desire to become more involved in the shaping and development of their community.  Participants will get a first-hand look at how the city’s many facilities, services and programs work to create a livable community and offer insight into opportunities on how they can be more involved at the local government level. 

Program Outline.

• The City Government Academy is held on Wednesday evenings, beginning at 6:00 PM and will end no later than 8:30 PM.  
• The 9 weekly sessions are held at various locations within the city with the final week holding a graduation at a City Council meeting.  
• During these sessions, participants will interact first hand with department heads and other City staff to learn about the day-to-day department operations, tour various work spaces and have opportunity to ask questions and even have some hands-on experiences.
• Class size will be limited to 25 participants; accepted on a first come/first served basis, with priority given to City residents and two available spots designated for students. There will be a minimum requirement of 15 participants to run the academy.

Sessions will include:

• Overview of Municipal Government and Finances
• Elections & Licensing
• Police and Fire Departments
• Public Works, Airport and Cemetery operations
• City Engineering
• Community Development and Planning
• City facilities including Library, Yanmar Arena, Parks and Golf
• City Council and Boards & Commissions

Schedule for 2024:

• April 3rd to May 28, 2024  NOTE: The final session will be held on Tuesday, May 28th at a regular City Council meeting.
• 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Application Deadline:  Friday, March 22, 2024

How do I apply?  APPLICATIONS CLOSED UNTIL JANUARY 2025 FOR NEXT SESSION.

Click here to complete and submit your City Government Academy application online. 

QUESTIONS:  Please contact Kimberly Gibeau, City Clerk at kgibeau@grandrapidsmn.gov or by calling 218-326-7611.