BY GRACELYN GIESE
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
GREEN BAY – Green Bay will bring back the City Hall Academy this May for its second class.
Focusing on public education regarding local government, these courses will provide deeper insight into how Green Bay operates.
Green Bay City Hall Academy is an eight-week program designed to give attendees a look into local governmental processes while providing insight to government services, functions and activities.
The academy achieves this through “unique and informative sessions” including tours, demonstrations and hands-on activities focused in a variety of areas in the municipal government.
Some areas explored include the mayor’s office, public works, transit, water, public safety and parks and recreation.
The first City Hall Academy was held in 2023 and was sparked by a desire to promote citizen engagement, transparency, accountability and educational incentives.
Green Bay Community Liaison & Special Events Coordinator Jessie Paque noted “the creation of the City Hall Academy was driven by the desire to foster a more informed, engaged and empowered community, which leads to a stronger community.”
Alyssa Specht, graduate from the inaugural City Hall Academy, said that she participated in the academy to gain a deeper understanding of how the city operates.
“Being a realtor, I’m all about being a go-to person in the community, and I figured this would be a cool way to learn more about how things work around here,” Specht explained.
Specht said her favorite activity during the City Hall Academy was the vehicle accident response simulation.
“It offered a firsthand glimpse into the dedication and hard work put in by these first responders, making it a memorable experience” she said.
Specht added that she not only gained a deeper understanding of the inner workings of Green Bay, but also a deeper respect.
“Witnessing the dedication of the city’s employees firsthand was inspiring. It made me immensely proud to call myself a Green Bay resident, knowing that such passionate individuals are working to better our city every day,” Specht stated.
The City Hall Academy will last for eight weeks, with classes hosted 6-8 p.m. every Thursday.
In order to graduate, participants must attend at least six of the eight courses, as well as one city council or committee meeting during the span of the course.
The academy operates on a first come, first serve basis with priority given to Green Bay residents.
Classes start May 2.
There is no fee to register, but the class is capped at 25 participants.
For more information or to register, contact [email protected] or (920) 448-3300.