School is back in session, summer is almost over and fall is around the corner. With the arrival of fall comes time for the second annual Dawson County Citizens Academy.

Last year 40 citizens, ranging from young professionals just out of college to retirees, attended the inaugural academy class.

Each Tuesday evening for 10 weeks the participants learned all the integral details of their local government.

Department heads, elected officials and constitutional officers from the various departments of local government gave the group an in-depth look into their individual duties and how they operate their offices.

The program participants also had the opportunity to visit and tour various county facilities including the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office and Detention Center, Rock Creek Park Sports Complex and Emergency Services Station One and Headquarters.

The feedback received from those that participated was incredible.

The program concluded with a graduation dinner, where those that attended the classes received certificates and recognition for a job well done.

Almost everyone that participated provided names of family members and/or friends they would recommend to attend next year’s class.

Well, next year is here and it is time to kick off the second annual Dawson County Citizens Academy.

It is more important than ever for everyone to be informed about what is happening at all levels of government.

I have been encouraged by how well our community continues to step up to any challenge, and we all know that we have been faced with unprecedented challenges over the past 18 months.

We have seen a continued downturn in our economy and have been forced to make difficult decisions to maintain a balanced budget.

Now, more than ever, every citizen should have the desire to become more informed about what’s going on in local government.

We have many talented people in our community and we can all learn from each other as we work together to move our county forward.

I encourage you to consider taking part in this year’s academy.

The program will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 22 and be held each Tuesday night for 10 weeks with a break for Election Day.

Anyone interested in having their name placed on the academy list can contact me directly by e-mail at ktanner@dawsoncounty.org or by calling (706) 344-3501, Ext. 237.

I look forward to hearing from you and to seeing you at the first night of the second annual academy.

As always, I am here to serve you. If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Kevin Tanner is the Dawson County Manager