OCALA, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2024) – Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 City of Ocala Citizens Academy program. Citizens Academy is a free, exciting, 11-week program that touches upon virtually every facet of city government. Sessions will be held Thursdays, March 21 through May 30, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at various city locations. Food and other refreshments will be provided at each session.

Participants will visit and interact with nearly every City department including the Ocala International Airport, Ocala Fire Rescue, Ocala Police Department, Public Works Department, Ocala Electric Utility and more. Participants will hear from elected officials and top City administrators including City Manager, Peter Lee. Each session will include live demonstrations, a question-and-answer portion, and educational discussions to give participants a better understanding of current City projects and economic development opportunities.

All participants must be at least 18 years of age and currently be residents or business owners in Ocala/Marion County. Participants must also be able to attend a minimum of nine sessions to successfully graduate from this program. The deadline to register is Friday, March 8. Space is limited and is reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. To register, please visit www.ocalafl.gov/citizensacademy.

For more information, please visit www.ocalafl.gov/citizensacademy or call 352-401-3978.