What's Happening in Davenport, IA…

On May 25, 2016, twenty-five Davenport residents proved they had learned a lot about how their local government works. As evidence, they were graduated as

the first class to finish the Davenport U course, the inaugural Citizens Academy session run by the city. Citizens' academies are becoming common across the country, as communities encourage residents to learn about their operations.

The academy is an interactive, nine-week program that gives people a chance to understand the ways in which various city departments operate. Participants enjoyed meeting and interacting with members of different agencies.

Elizabeth Plumb, who completed the course, said she and other students had learned about police operations, as well as the way the Fire Department is run. A field trip afforded the class the opportunity to learn about the wastewater treatment plant. According to Plumb, the academy gave the students a broad overview of a number of departments.

Rita Rawson, a Davenport alderman, said it was interesting to watch the students gain such a good understanding, and see “how the light bulbs went on” for them as they engaged with the various city employees.

Another Citizens Academy is coming up in September, and applications will be available in June. Classes are limited to 30 Davenport residents, 18 and older.

Governments at all levels can work with printing companies, creating items such as newsletters that can be distributed to community members to spread information about special events.