BERRYVILLE, VA (Aug. 22, 2022) Do you ever wonder what exactly your local government does for you? Clarke County officials value civic engagement and want individuals to learn more about how government offices, boards, and commissions function as well as how various facilities operate. Individuals ages 18 and up are encouraged to enroll in the 2022-23 Clarke County Citizens Academy. Now in its second year, the program is ideal for both longtime and new county residents as well as owners of businesses in the county.

Clarke County Citizens Academy participants agree to meet one day each month for 10 months, September to June. Each program is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with lunch provided. Citizens Academy cohorts are small enough that individuals will get to know each other and network with the county officials who lead the classes. Field trips give participants the opportunity to go behind the scenes at a number of facilities, including the water treatment plant and regional jail.

Program cost is $50. Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26.

“We are excited to offer this program to the community for a second time. We want residents and business owners understand how county government works,” said County Administrator Chris Boies, noting, “Last year’s first Citizens Academy participants were enthusiastic about what they learned and the field trips they took.” Citizens Academy topics include public education, law enforcement, community services, recreation, historic preservation, and land conservation. “We want participants to walk away better informed about how county government operates and how it collaborates with its seat, the Town of Berryville.”

Read more about the Clarke County Citizens Academy. Submit a brief application form. Individuals accepted into the program will receive an email notification and class schedule from info@clarkecounty.gov. Payment is due on the first day. For more information, contact County Administration at (540) 955-5100 or info@clarkecounty.gov.