To: Honorable Mayor and Members of Town Council
From: Kristin Read, Assistant Town Manager
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Presentation: Your Town Academy Graduating Class
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Executive Summary
The Your Town Academy program was offered to the community again this year. The eight-week class aims to “increase governmental transparency by increasing community awareness about Town operations.”
A class of 30 residents and business owners was recruited this summer. Classes kicked off Aug. 15. Since then, the class has learned about all aspects of how the Town operates.
Tonight, we recognize our graduating students - some of whom are here in person, and some of whom are attending online:
Scott Ashburn Anya Bellizzi Amy Bodfield Jennifer Burkey
Melody Chamberlain Donna Clark Mike Farenbruch Bryce Lewis
Steven Lockwood Carrie Lohr Rose McGinn Kevin McHugh
Greg Myers Ann O’Leary Brian Ortiz Tim Price
Joe Schmid Marcia Schmid Terri Sergeant Jaclynn Skaarup
The class received surveys each week to provide feedback on the program. Again this year, their comments were overwhelmingly positive and provided the project team helpful guidance on making the program even better in the future. Following is a sampling of the participant feedback received:
“I’ve lived in Castle rock for 15 years but was surprised at how much new information I learned that I didn’t know about the town. Very worthwhile.”
“I would highly recommend this class for anyone wishing to learn more about the town, how it operates, and how it's governed. Knowledge is power!”
“Your Town Academy is a tremendous opportunity for Castle Rock residents that are either new to the community, looking to get more involved, or just wanting to be an educated member of the community. The program delivers all you need to know and more about the talent and hard work behind what makes this community so successful and leaves you feeling proud to call Castle Rock home.”
“If you want to get to know the Town of Castle Rock, for whatever reason, the Town Academy is hands down, the best way to do just that. Very informative, eye opening and you may just be surprised at what you'll learn about this wonderful and unique Colorado Town of Castle Rock!!”
Staff plans to offer Your Town Academy again in 2023. Applications will again be solicited in summer for a class beginning in the fall. Updates will be posted at CRgov.com/YTA.