Registration is now underway for the City of Delaware’s 2026 Citizens’ Academy, a free, in-person program designed to give a behind-the-scenes look at how their city government works.
The Citizens’ Academy offers participants the opportunity to learn directly from City staff and elected officials while exploring the structure, services, and day-to-day operations of the City of Delaware. Through facility tours, interactive discussions, and hands-on learning, participants gain a deeper understanding of how local government functions and how City departments serve the community.
The Academy consists of a series of in-person classes held between February and June 2026. Each session focuses on a specific area of city government and provides participants with direct access to department leaders and subject-matter experts.
Eligibility
The Citizens’ Academy is open to City of Delaware residents and individuals who work within the city. Applicants are asked to commit to attending all sessions. Class size is limited to 25 participants.
Registration
The registration form for the 2026 Citizens’ Academy is available here. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited.
2026 Citizens’ Academy Schedule
All sessions are held from 6–8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
- Session 1: Thursday, Feb. 12 – Manager-Council Form of Government (Council Chambers)
- Session 2: Thursday, Feb. 26 – Finance (Council Chambers)
- Session 3: Thursday, March 12 – City Prosecutor and Economic Development (Council Chambers)
- Session 4: Thursday, March 26 – Public Works and Transportation, 6–8:30 p.m. (Public Works)
- Session 5: Wednesday, April 8 – Public Utilities Wastewater Plant, 6–7:30 p.m.
- Session 6: Thursday, April 9 – Public Utilities Water Plant, 6–7:30 p.m.
- Session 7: Saturday, April 18 – Fire, 9–11:30 a.m. (Station 301)
- Session 8: Thursday, April 30 – Parks (Hidden Valley Golf Course)
- Session 9: Thursday, May 14 – Police (Justice Center)
- Session 10: Thursday, May 28 – Planning (Council Chambers)
- Graduation: Monday, June 8 – Council Chambers, 6:30 p.m.
Additional information, including the registration link, is here: www.delawareohio.net/citizensacademy
