Published May 19 2015
The city is seeking participants for the next Bellevue Essentials class, the city's program for emerging neighborhood and community leaders,
People interested in learning more about the structure and operations of city government are invited to apply. The deadline is July 17.
Bellevue Essentials, an introduction to civic engagement in Bellevue, begins September 17 and continues for nine weeks. Class size is limited to 35 participants and has had a waiting list each year. Participants will learn the nuts and bolts of how city government works from neighborhood and community leaders, elected officials and key city staff.
"The interactive experiences at Bellevue Essentials made everything come alive," said Jay Shukla, a 2014 alumnus who volunteers with Neighborhood Mediation. "The class opened my eyes to the complexity of running a city. The commitment and quality of the staff and leadership we interacted with was excellent."
Bellevue Essentials organizers are seeking participants with diverse backgrounds and interests. No experience is needed to qualify 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 topics will include history, demographics, public process, neighborhoods, code compliance, parks and community services, planning, budget, transportation, environmental stewardship, utilities, intergovernmental relations and economic development. A variety of learning tools, such as speakers, panels, interactive exercises and site visits are used.
Class tuition is $95 per participant and financial assistance is available. Tuition includes all classes, materials and a light dinner at each session.
To request a brochure, please contact Julie Ellenhorn, Neighborhood Outreach, 425-452-5372 or jellenhorn@bellevuewa.gov. You can apply online.