Last January the Town launched its first Citizens Academy program to help connect our residents with firsthand knowledge about local government. We were really pleased with the response from the community and were able to deliver an engaging program to a great and dedicated group of 16 residents (first class pictured below). 

This month we have opened up the application process for the 2nd Annual Citizens Academy. We hope you are interested in joining us. We aim to educate the new class on how our local government functions, increase transparency and build trust within our community as well as help foster future leaders in public service and volunteerism. 

Last year’s participants enjoyed their experience and felt that the commitment was worthwhile. Bob Rombauer reflected on his experience by sharing that he was “amazed by the complexity of managing a small-town government. The dedication of the professionals in their respective roles, starting with the Town Manager, is impressive. If you have the opportunity to attend the academy next year, it will be well worth your time.” And Megan Momtaheni felt that the program made her “feel more connected to Ashland, other residents, and those who serve it.”

We have built off our program last year and plan to bring an interactive program to the participants. If you have interest in learning about the day-to-day operations of Town and about various roles, responsibilities and priorities of your Town departments this program would be great for you! We are planning a 10-week program and will meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. You will receive presentations from our department heads and their staff, you will tour our new public safety building and public works buildings and we will make sure you have plenty of time to ask any questions you might have about the inner workings of town government.   

To apply go to: https://ashlandmass.com/1103/Citizens-Academy for more information.