Do you want to know how your government works? Citizens are invited to go behind the scenes of government departments during the Dawson County Citizens Academy.

Dawson County Government and Community Affairs is now accepting applicants for the Fall 2010 academy. Citizens are encouraged to sign up early to reserve a place in the class.

Beginning Sept. 7 citizens of Dawson County are invited to participate in the free 10-week course designed to provide an in-depth look at the diverse activities of Dawson County government.

The program, now entering its third year, offers sessions on special projects, emergency services, finance, planning and zoning, law enforcement, court systems and many other vital community services. Family and friends are invited to attend a graduation ceremony for all program participants on the last evening.

“Citizens will meet their government in person in this unique series as they gain a better understanding of how government works, who to call with questions, and how each citizen can become involved,” said Dawson County Manager Kevin Tanner.

“Academy classes will meet Tuesday evenings from 6-9 p.m for 10 weeks,” Tanner said. “Students will have the opportunity to learn what government work is about.”

“Our first two years were very successful and we received excellent feedback from course completers,” said Government and Community Affairs Representative Cathy Brooks.

Classes will be held in several community locations including Dawsonville City Complex, the newly constructed Emergency Services Station #2 Community Room, Emergency Services Station #7, Dawson County Law Enforcement Center, Senior Center and the Dawson County Courthouse.

Citizens Academy is open to the public. There is no fee to attend. Registration is limited to the first 40 applicants. For more information or to register, contact Cathy Brooks at (706) 344-3501, Ext. 255 or e-mail cbrooks@dawsoncounty.org.