Ambassador Academy Accepting Applications

Where do tax dollars actually go once you’ve paid them? How does such a small island handle its wastewater and storm water while protecting nearshore waters? What do school resource officers do? The answers are just some of the knowledge you’ll gain as a Key West Ambassador.

There is no better way to get to know city government than through the Key West Ambassadors Academy. Registration begins tomorrow for Class 35 of the Academy. Applications are available on the City’s website at www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov, or you can call Alyson Crean at 305-809-1058. Space is limited, so interested participants are urged to submit the application quickly.

The weekly classes begin on July 15th and wrap up on October 7th. The class meets every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., usually at the City Hall, 1300 White Street. There are many field trips involved in the sessions as well.

The Ambassadors program first convened in 2003. Originally sponsored by the city manager. Volunteer ambassadors now help coordinate the 13-week program. During the weekly sessions, representatives of various City departments meet with the group to give an in-depth understanding of the workings of City government.

The list of graduates of the programs looks like a who’s who of Key West that includes city and county commissioners, CEOs and directors of several not-for-profit organizations. The Ambassadors program works under the concept that an educated citizenry is the bedrock of a well-functioning democracy.

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