Brewster To Launch Civics Academy

BREWSTER – In an effort to engage and educate Brewster residents about local government services, departments and functions, town officials have developed a new 11-week program launching this fall. 

 The Civics Academy will run from Sept. 10 to Nov. 19 and include topics centered upon the operations of town government. Staff members and volunteers will run the sessions, giving students an inside look at how town departments are run. 

 The inaugural 2025 academy will have 25 available slots and will require pre-registration. Applications include four open-ended questions diving into the applicant’s interest, community involvement, town government experience and expectations for the program. Applications are available on the town’s website. 

 “This new program is a great way to engage with our residents to help them better understand what it takes to provide services in our community and what opportunities exist for them to get more involved,” said Town Manager Peter Lombardi. “We are looking forward to showcasing the interesting and complicated work that goes on behind the scenes every day on behalf of our residents.”

 Each week attendees will have access to specific aspects of town government, including budgets and finances, public works, water, recreation, council on aging, Sea Camps, fire department, community planning, police department, golf department, library, schools, natural resources, health, town clerk, committees and town meeting. 

 Topics will range from the structure of a municipality to operation of the town’s safety departments, health inspections and volunteer opportunities, just to name a few. A full schedule of the 11-week academy is available on the town’s website. 

 Weekly sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. While attendance at all the classes is not mandatory, interested parties will be encouraged to check off which classes they are available for on their applications. 

 Over the last few years, administrators have made an effort to provide residents with clear and concise communication surrounding town operations. In addition to the town website, social media alerts, the Brewster government television channel and the new monthly newsletter, the Civics Academy will be another avenue for residents to understand how decisions are made and how certain roles play a part. 

 It will also help individuals feel more prepared heading into town meetings and special elections, officials say. 

 For more information, visit the “latest news” section of the town website at brewster-ma.gov.