MAYOR ANNOUNCES EFFORT TO INCREASE CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

(PITTSBURGH)  July 12   Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced the creation of the City’s first-ever Civic Leadership Academy, a free 10-week course designed to educate residents about local government in the City of Pittsburgh.

Beginning Sept. 14 and ending Nov. 16, participants will attend weekly sessions focusing on different City departments and the services they provide to make for a safer, more livable City. City directors will develop their sessions with tours, hands-on demonstrations and fun activities to provide an up-close and personal view of how their department helps to operate the City.

“This unique program provides interested residents the opportunity to learn how their local government operates to improve their communities.” said Mayor Ravenstahl, “It is our hope that participants will take the knowledge acquired from this program to inspire them to become more informed, effective community and municipal leaders.”

The program consists of 10 consecutive sessions on Tuesday evenings from 6 – 8 p.m. Session topics include city organization and vision; budgeting processes; city planning and economic development; public works and parks services; the protection of water and rivers; public safety efforts, and more. After the sessions, the Mayor will lead a graduation ceremony where participants will be awarded certificates.

Applicants must be at least 18-years-old and live within Pittsburgh City limits and/or be a business owner who operates a business within Pittsburgh City limits. Applications are due by 5 p.m., July 30, 2010. For more information and to apply for the Civic Leadership Academy visit www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us. The application is available at the top of the homepage.

Date: July 12, 2010

Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary

(cell) 412-475-2387

joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us