Fountain Valley Citizens' Academy

Applications for Citizens' Academy 2025 open on Wednesday, July 2, 2025

What is a Citizens' Academy?

Get ready to go behind the scenes and discover the inner workings of your city like never before! The City of Fountain Valley invites you to an exclusive, hands-on journey into municipal government through our dynamic Citizens' Academy.

Imagine yourself side-by-side with the dedicated professionals who shape our community every day. This isn't just a lecture series – it's your chance to dive into interactive activities, tackle real-world case studies, and truly understand the opportunities and challenges that define Fountain Valley.

Unlock the mysteries of how decisions are made, explore the city's financial blueprint, and witness firsthand the principles guiding our Council/City Manager form of government. You'll connect with the brilliant minds leading our City – from the Attorney for the City and City Clerk to the City Council, Department Directors, and the passionate teams within Human Resources, Community Development, Finance, Fountain Valley Fire Department (FVFD), Information Technology, Community Services, Fountain Valley Police Department (FVPD), and Public Works.

The Citizens' Academy is your unique gateway to becoming a more engaged and informed citizen. Prepare to:

• Become an Insider: Uncover the processes behind the City's decisions, explore exciting opportunities on the horizon, and understand how we address challenges through captivating presentations, in-depth case studies, and engaging interactive sessions.
• Master the City's Finances: Gain a clear understanding of where our revenues come from, how expenditures are managed, and the intricacies of our budget structure.
• Connect with Your City Leaders: Meet and interact directly with the dedicated individuals who lead our departments and serve our community.
• Forge Lasting Community Bonds: Build meaningful relationships with your neighbors and fellow residents who share a passion for Fountain Valley.

Don't just live in Fountain Valley – understand it, engage with it, and become an integral part of its future! Sign up for the Citizens' Academy and embark on an exciting journey of discovery.

Eligibility

The Citizens' Academy is open to anyone, 18 or older, who works or resides in the City of Fountain Valley and has an interest in City government.

Cost and Application/Selection Process

The Academy is FREE to all participants. You are encouraged to complete your application online. However, if you need to receive an application by mail/e-mail, or for more information, please contact: Rick Miller, City Clerk, at (714) 593-4445 or e-mail rick.miller@fountainvalley.gov

• Applications Open: Wednesday, July 2, 2025
• Application Due: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
• Application Review: Week of August 11
• Notice to Applicants: Week of August 18

To ensure the quality of instruction and interaction with participants, class size is limited to a maximum of 25 people. Those not selected for the current Academy will be considered for subsequent academies. The program is offered free-of-charge. For this reason, the city has implemented an attendance requirement. Residents are allowed to miss a maximum of two (2) of the scheduled sessions in order to graduate.

Please return your completed application to:

City of Fountain Valley 

Attn: Rick Miller

10200 Slater Avenue

Fountain Valley CA, 92708

Meeting Dates and Times

The Academy takes place one (1) time a year in the fall and will begin on, Wednesday, September 3 and continue through Wednesday, October 15. Participants who complete the Academy will attend a reception, receive an Academy completion certificate, and be recognized by our City Council. Meetings will be held Wednesday evenings, 6 - 8 p.m. The Academy will be held at different locations throughout the course including; FV Recreation Center, City Hall, City Council Chambers and other city facilities.

2025 Citizens' Academy Application