Published May 29 2019
Bellevue Essentials, the city’s program for emerging neighborhood and community leaders, is seeking applicants for the 2019 class. Information meetings will be on Tuesday, June 11, at Lake Hills Library and Wednesday, June 12, Room 1E-112 at City Hall. Both one-hour orientations begin at 6 p.m.
The nine-week introduction to civic engagement in Bellevue begins the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 25 (eight weekly Wednesday evening sessions and a Saturday tour day). Class size is limited to 35 participants; the program has had a waiting list each year. The application deadline is Aug. 2.
Participants will learn the nuts and bolts of how city government works from key city staff, elected officials and community leaders. Class topics include history, demographics, diversity, public process, neighborhoods, parks and community services, utilities, planning and development services, budget, transportation, economic development and public safety. Learning tools include speakers, panels, interactive exercises and site visits.
This class is for people curious about civic engagement and local government and committed to the future of Bellevue and serving their community. No experience is needed to apply and class members have ranged in age from 17 to 70-plus. Classes are open to anyone who lives or works in Bellevue, but preference is given to residents.
Class tuition is $125 and financial assistance is available. Tuition includes all classes, materials and a light dinner at each session.
Attendance at the information meeting is recommended, or you can request a brochure and a simple one-page application from Neighborhood Services at 425-452-5372 or jellenhorn@bellevuewa.gov or visit bellevuewa.gov/bellevue-essentials.