Pinellas Citizen University begins new sessions April 10

Pinellas County residents can experience a behind-the-scenes look at how their county government provides first-class services in this year’s Pinellas Citizen University.

The application window is open for the six-week course scheduled for select Wednesday and Thursday evenings from April 10 through May 15.

Participants will get an inside look at various Pinellas County operations each week and talk to the experts as they explore a wide range of county functions. Classes generally meet from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Enrollment applications are available online or by calling (727) 464-4600. The deadline to apply for this year’s session is Friday, March 29.  Registration is free, includes snacks, all course materials, a graduation ceremony, a class photo and a diploma.

Participants will learn about the five goals of the county’s Strategic Plan with a focus on how employees are setting the standard for public service and making Pinellas an even better place to call home.

Participants will:

  • Learn about the budget and gain a better understanding of how the County manages funds, including the Penny for Pinellas.
  • See what it takes to plan a hurricane evacuation in the face of an approaching storm and how to stay safe.
  • Participate in a Touch-A-Truck demonstration by the Public Works staff and learn how the department protects our environment, builds critical infrastructure and makes multimodal transportation safer and more efficient.
  • Find out how our Utilities department delivers safe, high-quality drinking water and reuses wastewater for irrigation.
  • Hear about opportunities to excel after graduation and how to get involved in your community.

These are just a few of the exciting experiences planned for this year’s session of Pinellas Citizen University.

Upon completion, each graduate receives a diploma signed by the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners and a class picture to commemorate the event. Enrollment is limited to residents who have not previously participated in PCU. Upon acceptance, a packet will be emailed to all participants with instructions, meeting places, a list of classes and other session information.