THOMASVILLE — People interested in Thomas County government and how it works are registering for the 10th annual Citizens’ Academy that begins in September.

“We’ve got over 20 registered so far,” said Twink Monahan, county clerk.

The 2018 Citizens’ Academy is from Sept. 6 to Nov. 15. Sessions are each Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. 

The 11-week program is designed to give residents an overview of county management, operations and procedures.

“Each weekly session will inform and educate citizens about how each department and office carries out its distinctive mission,” Monahan said.

Classes are taught by county officials and staff chosen for their specific area of expertise in a county function. Monahan said classes also give county personnel an opportunity to learn from residents.

Information provided at sessions ranges from judges explaining the judicial process to firefighters showing videos that explain how they extinguish blazes to emergency medical service personnel demonstrating life-saving equipment.

There is no charge for the course, which is conducted at different county government facilities. A meal is provided at each session.

Class size is limited to 40. Additional applicants are placed on a waiting list.

Monahan said 30 to 40 people attend the Citizens’ Academy annually, and some return several years after their first attendance. 

“They really want to know what the county does and how their tax dollars are spent,” she said. “When they leave, they feel like we’re good stewards of the taxes they pay.”

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820