CITY OF RENO NEWS — The registration deadline for the spring Reno Citizens Institute (RCI) is January 31, 2014, so there is still an opportunity to register for the award winning classes. The Institute is a very popular program. More than 1,200 participants have graduated from RCI since it started in 2004.
The free eight week RCI program is hosted on Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. at various City facilities and venues. Classes begin on Tuesday, February 4 and end on Tuesday, March 25, 2014. Light snacks are served at 4:45 p.m. The Institute is open to Reno, Sparks and Washoe County residents.
Reno resident Teri Bath, who participated in the spring 2013 RCI said, “I think it’s been amazing. I think for anyone who wants to know anything about our community – how our community works, what our Police Department does, what our Fire Department does, what Public Works does, what the City Council does – it’s a brief but great introduction in to how the City works.”
Participants meet with elected officials, department directors and City staff to gain an understanding of the City’s structure, processes, and services through hands-on exercises and presentations. Activities include a mock Planning Commission meeting and a mock trial as participants take on various courtroom roles. Participants also visit the 9-1-1 dispatch center to get a taste of the fast paced and inner workings of public safety. A trip to a local fire station includes trying on some of the fire fighting gear and seeing the apparatus up close.
RCI offers an opportunity for participants to gain valuable insight into City operations so they can become ambassadors for positive changes in their neighborhood and community. It also offers a learning opportunity for those who want to serve on one of the City’s many advisory boards, or are interested in running for office. Media representatives are also encouraged to participate.
Applications for the spring session and more information about the program are available online at www.reno.gov or by calling Reno Direct at 334-INFO (4636).
Spring 2014 RCI Class Schedule
February 4 – City Manager’s Office
February 11 – Parks, Recreation and Community Services
February 18 – Reno Fire Department
February 25 – Reno Police Department
March 4 – Public Works
March 11 – Municipal Court and City Attorney’s Office
March 18 – Community Development/Code Enforcement/ Business License
March 25 – Human Resources, Finance and Communications & Technology
March 26 – Graduation at the Reno City Council meeting
