The City of Goleta is proud to congratulate 25 exceptional community members for completing the six-week LEAD Goleta Community Academy. LEAD stands for Learn, Empower, Advocate, and Discuss. On February 12, 2020, the group completed their final class and then received their well-deserved graduation certificates as well as a City of Goleta pin. The celebratory event was attended by the Mayor, City Councilmembers, City Manager, City Staff and family and friends of the participants.
Watch a recap of our six week LEAD Goleta Community Academy here.
The diverse group of Academy participants came from all different backgrounds and walks of life. The group included a high school student, college students, retirees, business professionals, community activists and more. For six weeks the participants learned everything from how the City of Goleta is run and how the City came to be, to all the facets that make up a City including presentations from Finance, Public Works, Planning, Neighborhood Services & Public Safety, the City Clerk’s Office, Goleta Valley Library, City Attorney’s Office, Community Outreach and more.
Besides getting a behind the scenes look at each of these departments, the participants also got a tour of City Hall, experienced a Mock City Council meeting and watched video ride-alongs with our Public Works Director and our Parks and Recreation Manager.
Before receiving their certificates, the graduates went around the room and expressed what they enjoyed most about the Academy. Here are just some of the comments:
Goleta resident and mother of five, Lina Plascencia said, “This class proved to be considerably momentous and informative; more than I could have anticipated! I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in learning more about our amazing City of Goleta and the dedicated staff.”
Goleta resident Steve George said, “The LEAD class was a great introduction to the mechanics of our local government. Few cities I have lived in have welcomed such close interaction with City Leaders as here in Goleta. The transparency of processes and communication is commendable. I highly recommend that everyone take the opportunity to participate in the LEAD program and to make a difference in our community.”
Life-long Goleta resident Cristi Smith said, “Every speaker was professional, well-organized, captivating and really drove home the fact that they truly care about our great community. I can rest easy knowing we have an educated and dedicated staff working for us round the clock to ensure the Goodland stays that way. I encourage everyone who has an interest in Goleta to sign up the next opportunity this course is offered.”
Goleta resident Phil Tabyanan said, “I signed up for LEAD to learn more about Goleta leadership, the decision makers, policies, and the various departments that impact the city/community. I was moved at how accessible leadership is from the top down. I enjoyed learning about each individual department and the key players involved. This class is an essential to understanding the who, what, when, where, why and how’s in the City of Goleta!”
Mayor Paula Perotte applauded the group for their participation and said, “I appreciate your taking time out of your busy lives to come learn about how a city is run. I hope you take this information and share it with your friends and family and that you will stay engaged.”
The City of Goleta is proud to offer this unique and enlightening experience and looks forward to our next class in the fall (Wednesdays September 9 – October 14). If you are interested in signing up, please email jshaw@cityofgoleta.org to be notified when applications are available.