OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The City of Ocala is now accepting applications for the 2026 Citizens Academy.
The free, 11-week program begins Thursday, March 26, and will be held weekly on Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. through June 4. Graduation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, at 4 p.m. during the following City Council meeting.
Citizens Academy provides residents with an inside look at how their local government serves the community. Through interactive sessions, participants will explore city operations, budgeting and decision-making processes while gaining a deeper understanding of what makes Ocala a full-service city. The program features facility tours, department presentations and direct engagement with city officials and staff.
The academy is designed to promote transparency, strengthen civic knowledge and encourage community involvement.
Participation is limited to 25 residents. Applicants must be City of Ocala residents, at least 18 years old and able to attend a minimum of nine of the 11 sessions.
Applications are available online at ocalafl.gov/citizensacademy. The deadline to apply is Sunday, March 1, by 11:59 p.m. Selected participants will be notified by Friday, March 6.
For more information, contact the City of Ocala’s Communications Coordinator Darling Hill at dhill@ocalafl.gov.