Citizens Academy

Get an inside look at how Huber Heights works.
The Citizens Academy is a free  interactive educational program that is designed to:

• Build understanding and trust between residents and the city government.
• Foster Civic participation and transparency.
• Educate residents on how the city operates.
• Identify and prepare future city leaders and volunteers.

Sessions are led by City staff, include facility tours and demos, and are designed to be interactive and practical.

Who should apply

• Huber Heights residents ages 18+ who may be curious about City services

What you’ll experience

• Session 1 - City Council & Administration: Learn how City Council and administration set priorities, make decisions, and guide the future of Huber Heights.
• Session 2 - Parks & Recreation & Community Engagement: Learn about City parks, programs, events, and the many ways we connect residents with their community.
• Session 3 - Police & Fire Divisions: Get a closer look at public safety, including community policing, emergency response, equipment, and training.
• Session 4 - Planning, Zoning, & Economic Development: Discover how new projects are reviewed, codes are enforced, and long-range planning influences our growth.
• Session 5 - Utilities & Environmental Services: Explore the services that keep our community running smoothly, from water and sewer to waste and sustainability efforts.
• Session 6 - Finance, Budget & Taxes: See how the City manages tax dollars, funds essential services, and invests in infrastructure and community needs.
• Session 7 - Public Works & Infrastructure: Discover how our crews maintain streets, manage snow and ice removal, and support large-scale improvement projects.
• Session 8 - Graduation & Recognition: Celebrate your achievements with classmates, City leaders, and a recognition ceremony.

Schedule & format

• Thursday evenings starting late January - March, from 6-8p.
• Runs for multiple consecutive weeks (exact dates posted on this page).
• Mix of presentations, site tours, hands‑on activities, and Q&A.
• Attendance expectations are 6 of 8 sessions and a maximum cohort size of 25. 
• The program is free to participants.

How to apply

1. Complete the online Citizens Academy Application (the form will appear below when enrollment opens in October).
2. City staff will confirm your seat and send session details.
3. Accessibility or language accommodations are available upon request.

Selection Criteria

Our goal is to have a diverse representation of Huber Heights residents in the program. In the case there are more applicants than seats available, the following criteria will be used:

1. 4 persons per ward, with 1 randomly selected by the program staff
2. Responses to questions asked on the application (Why are you interested in participating? and What do you hope to learn or accomplish by completing this program?)
3. Diversity in age in each ward pool of applicants

Accessibility

City facilities are accessible. If you need an accommodation or language assistance, please let us know when you apply so we can plan ahead.