Citizen Academy to Run Again this Year

The City of Cody is currently accepting applications to participate in the 6th Citizen Academy. This program, offered generally every other year, gives residents a unique, behind-the-scenes look at local government while providing the opportunity to meet City leaders, tour City facilities, ask questions, and learn how the many departments work together to serve our community.

It’s easy to be an armchair quarterback and criticize what’s seen on the surface, but it’s much more fulfilling to take the extra step of deeper understanding. I was accepted to participate in this program in 2019 and found it incredibly helpful in beginning to understand the complexity of running the town. That basis of understanding has continued to help me today with the work I do with Cody Journal.

I can’t recommend this highly enough to anyone interested.

It’s made for anyone interested, but often attracts those who are considering running for a local office, wishing to get involved on boards, or someone who is already serving on boards and wants a more complete picture of how this town works. But it is open to all who wish to apply. Spaces are limited, which creates the need for the application process.

How to Apply

There is no cost to participate. The City encourages applicants of all ages and from all walks of life, from retirees to laborers, business owners, and administrative professionals. The academy coordinators screen applicants to ensure attendance by a good cross-section of the community.

Nominations and applications will be accepted until August 31, 2026. Please return the completed application form to City Hall (1338 Rumsey Avenue).

• Application Form

The Experience

Each Wednesday evening for eight weeks, you’ll meet at various facilities to learn about an aspect of the City of Cody. My group had a chance to visit various facilities and meet with many managers and directors, and ask questions. With the wide cross-section of the community, the questions raised gave wonderful insights.

This Session’s Class Schedule

Beginning on September 16, 2026, join us every Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at various City facilities. Sessions will run for eight weeks, ending on November 12, 2026, with a graduation from the program.
The sessions are scheduled as follows:

• September 16, 2026 – Getting to Know the City of Cody: Mayor, City Council, City Administrator, Administrative Services
• September 23, 2026 – Paying for the City of Cody: Finance, Budget
• September 30, 2026 – Recreation, Aquatics, and Facilities: Recreation Opportunities, Community and Economic Benefit
• October 7, 2026 – Public Works: Streets, Fleet, Parks, Trails, Grounds
• October 14, 2026 – Public Works: Utility Enterprise Funds, Water, Solid Waste and Recycling, Electric, Storm Drainage
• October 21, 2026 – Police: Protecting the City
• October 28, 2026 – Community Development: Planning, Permitting, Mapping
• November 4, 2026 – Getting Involved: Staff, Boards, Committees
• November 12, 2026 – Graduation and Recognition

Apply Today – Deadline is Monday, August 31, 2026.

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