Citizens Academy Graduates Recognized by City Council

Graduates of the six-week Citizens Academy class offered through the city of Maplewood were recognized with certificates and a glowing speech from Mayor James White at Tuesday night's Maplewood City Council meeting.

"These people took the time to get an in-depth sense of their city government, and it's very exciting," White said. "We really appreciate it."

The Citizens Academy offers residents the chance to learn the inner workings of their local government directly from their elected officials and city employees. 

Attendees learn the day-to-day operations of each department within the city, as well as how the city interacts with other municipalities.

"It's just amazing how the government works," said Margaret Kastigar, one of the graduates. "It's an outstanding group of people running the class."

Graduate Mary Killian appreciated learning about extensive work being done on a continual basis by Maplewood's and , while Kastigar also felt proud to learn that Maplewood provides amublance service at no cost to residents through an agreement with Abbott EMS.

City Manager Marty Corcoran noted that a number of class graduates have gone on to run for office in Maplewood as well.

The eight residents who graduated from the class are:

• Charles Hinderliter
• Margaret Kastigar
• Mary Killian
• Joe Miller
• Laura Miller
• Suzanne Morrison
• Steve Schroer
• Andrew Wilson

Citizens Academy classes are held once a week for six weeks every spring and fall. They are free and open to anyone wanting to attend. The next Citizens Academy is set for mid-September, though final dates haven't been announced yet.