VISTA — A free opportunity to become educated in all things Vista is now available for residents.
The city of Vista’s Leadership Academy is currently accepting applications for its spring program, beginning March 2. Up to 20 participants will have the chance to be schooled by city leaders and elected officials on topics such as city facilities, finances, and planning.
The program, which takes place over the course of seven weeks on consecutive Wednesday evenings, has been held about twice a year since 2007.
Andrea McCullough, communications officer for the city of Vista, said it’s another tool city leaders use to work with residents.
“It was developed by the City Council with the goal of communicating in a different way with residents,” McCullough said. “It’s been a real success.”
McCullough said participants of the Leadership Academy have gone on to serve on city commissions. One participant, Vista attorney Erubey Lopez, also ran for City Council after serving on the Parks Commission.
The participants have been diverse too. McCullough said some are longtime Vista residents while others are new to the city. Others are business or community leaders.
“You have real diversity among the participants,” McCullough said. “They bring up different perspectives and they learn from each other.”
The program is supported by a $2,000 budget allocated by the city, and can accommodate up to 20 people.
For more information about the city of Vista’s Leadership Academy or to apply for the program, go to ci.vista.ca.us. Applicants are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
The next Leadership Academy will be held in the fall.
