County Citizens Academy accepting applications

San Mateo County is offering anyone who lives or works in the County an opportunity to tour a jail, meet elected officials, watch a mock trial in a real courtroom and face the challenge of balancing a government budget by enrolling in the Spring 2008 Citizens Academy.

Forty participants will meet on eight consecutive Tuesday evenings and for two special Saturday field trips beginning April 1. More than 300 people have graduated from Citizens Academy since the Board of Supervisors launched it in 1999.

Each meeting will focus on a particular aspect of San Mateo County services. Presenters will include representatives from the District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, Health Department, Human Services Agency, Planning and Building, Public Works, Library services and others.

Applications are due Friday, March 21. Click below for more information.

Among the highlights will be tours of the men’s jail, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and San Mateo Medical Center. Participants will also learn about the roles of the Probation Department, how taxes are collected, how budgets are created and where public money is spent.

Tuesday sessions will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. from April 1 to May 20. The Citizens Academy is free. Graduates will receive a certificate and will be recognized by the Board of Supervisors.

In recognition of the time commitment, light meals will be served at each session. The meals are also free for participants.

The County of San Mateo has numerous advisory boards and commissions as well as opportunities to perform public service. The Citizens Academy serves as a training ground for volunteers and for those seeking to become more engaged in their community.

Applications can be completed online, e-mailed, faxed, mailed or picked up in person. To learn more or to register on-line, please visit www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/citizensacademy

To pick up an application, please visit the County Manager’s Office at 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063. To request an application by e-mail, fax or mail, contact Public Communications Manager Marshall Wilson at [email protected] or at (650) 363-4153.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, March 21. Accepted applicants will be notified as soon as possible following submittal of their completed application and all applicants will be notified of their status by Monday, March 24. The first 40 eligible applicants will be accepted.