PARIS, Tenn. — The City of Paris is inviting residents to go behind the scenes of their local government through the new City of Paris Citizens Academy, a free, hands-on program designed to provide participants with an inside look at how city services operate and how decisions are made.
The Citizens Academy offers an engaging and interactive learning experience through guided tours, demonstrations, and discussions with city staff. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how departments work together to serve the community and learn ways residents can become more involved in shaping the future of Paris.
Program Details
The Citizens Academy is a six-week program held on Monday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Participation is free and open to community members interested in learning more about city government operations and services.
Session Dates:
March 23
March 30
April 6
April 13
April 20
April 27
Graduation Ceremony:
Thursday, May 7, during a City Commission Meeting
Session Overview
Each session focuses on a different area of city operations:
- Government 101 & General Administration — City structure, budgeting, decision making, and resident engagement
- Public Safety — Paris Police Department, Paris Fire Department, and Dispatch operations
- Animal Control & Shelter Services — Shelter operations, animal control responsibilities, and volunteer opportunities
- Streets, Sanitation & Public Works — Infrastructure, sanitation services, and equipment demonstrations
- Planning, Zoning & Development — Growth, zoning, boards and commissions, and stormwater management
- Parks, Recreation & Community Events — Parks, facilities, community programming, and local impact
How to Apply
Applications are open through March 9.
Apply online:
https://paristn.gov/citizens-academy/
Apply in person:
City Hall
100 N. Caldwell Street
Paris, TN