What is it?
Spearheaded in 2002 by former Mayor Diane Bathgate, this innovative program is an opportunity for residents and/or business owners who have a sincere desire, commitment, and interest in the community and want to become better informed about the City's municipal operations and services. Individuals must be willing to commit one evening per week for eight weeks to this program. Class size is limited to 20 participants
Through this program, the City seeks to provide a Citizens Leadership Academy experience that:
- Improves awareness and understanding of the community through exposure to current and future issues of importance facing San Juan Capistrano.
- Empowers residents and business owners with the knowledge of the community and the role that the local government plays so that they can effectively share this information and knowledge with others.
When Does it Start?
San Juan Capistrano Citizens Leadership Academy participants attend eight 2-hour sessions, one night each week, culminating in a final “Graduation Ceremony” during the last session. The Academy meets in the Community Center Conference Room beginning on September 27, 2010.
Sessions focus on one of the following:
Government (Mayor/City Manager/City Clerk) -Monday, Sept. 27, 6:30 -8:30pm. Introduction and welcome by the Mayor followed by an overview of the City by the City Manager and City Clerk, including its governmental structure and responsibilities, and the priorities facing the community.
Development Services and Historic Preservation - Monday, Oct. 4 , 6:30 - 8:30 pm. How did that get built? A discussion on the City’s planning achievements, various land use issues, such as planning, zoning, development review, housing, and how decisions on these issues impact the community. The City's history and preservation efforts are included as well. This seminar is presented by the Community Development Director.
Public Works - Monday, Oct. 11, 6:30-8:30 pm . A discussion of various engineering and infrastructure maintenance issues including what's being done about traffic, capital improvement projects, as well as maintaining roadways and parks. The Director of Public Works hosts this seminar.
Finance -Monday, Oct 18 6:30-8:30 pm . Does the City have money? Find out with an overview of the City's financial position, budgeting, financial operations, customer service for water and general city operations and other related services will be provided by the City's Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer.
Redevelopment - Monday, Oct. 25, 6:30-8:30 pm . Hear what the City does to encourage new development, create jobs, and generate tax revenues from the City's CFO and Economic Development Department.
Utility Department - Monday, Nov. 1, 6:30-8:30 pm . An insight into the vital community services such as sewers, storm drains, and water facilities planning. The Utilities Director along with the Water Conservation Coordinator lead this seminar.
Police, Fire and Emergency Services - Monday, Nov. 8, 6:00-8:30 pm . A discussion of police and fire related community services and the current and emerging public safety issues by the City's Chief of Police, Fire Chief and staff responsible for the City's Emergency Planning.
Community Services and Graduation - Monday, Nov. 15, 6:00-8:30 pm . A presentation of the recreational facilities, open space, and community recreation and service programs that enhance the community will be covered in this evening’s program taught by Community Services Director, along with staff responsible for the City's trail system. This final session will culminate in a graduation ceremony and celebration for participants.
Application Process
Applications from all segments of the community are encouraged. The ideal class will include individuals with varied education, experience, and longevity in the community. Applicants who have been selected to participate in the San Juan Capistrano Citizens Leadership Academy will be notified by mail. Applications not selected will be on file for the next San Juan Capistrano Citizens Leadership Academy.
Send applications to:
Cathy Salcedo
City Manager Dept
City of San Juan Capistrano
32400 Paseo Adelanto
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
or csalcedo@sanjuancapistrano.org
For more information or to apply, please call 949-443-6317, or visit City Hall located at 32400 Paseo Adelanto. A copy of the San Juan Capistrano Citizens Leadership Academy application form can also be downloaded here.