Strafford News

City of Dover issued the following announcement on September 15.

The Greater Dover of Chamber of Commerce is producing the Eastern Bank Citizens Leadership Academy in partnership with the City of Dover this October. The free program offers Garrison City residents a firsthand look at local government and municipal operations and provides attendees an opportunity to help shape the future of the city.

The 2021 Citizens Leadership Academy will meet on Oct. 7, 14, 21, 23, 28, and Nov. 4. Each year this program brings together people from diverse segments of the community interested in meeting and working with others to address key issues critical to maintaining and improving Dover’s quality of life. It will increase citizens’ knowledge of the community and introduce them to opportunities to become more involved as active community members.

“Citizens Leadership Academy participants are encouraged to initiate discussions with other residents as well as business and government leaders, and contribute their knowledge, imagination and energy towards the betterment of the community,” said Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce President Margaret Joyce.

This year’s Citizens Leadership Academy will include presentations by City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr., Assistant City Manager/Director of Planning and Strategic Initiatives Christopher G. Parker, Economic Development Director Daniel Barufaldi, Library Director Denise LaFrance, Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Harbron, Fire Chief Paul Haas, Police Chief William Breault, Community Services Director John Storer and Recreation Director Gary Bannon.

“Citizens Leadership Academy is a great opportunity to learn more about local governance in Dover and discover how to become a better informed and involved citizen,” said City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. “The program provides participants with an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the various city departments and a behind-the-scenes look at how these departments each support and contribute to the quality of life we enjoy in our community.”

Eastern Bank is again sponsoring the Citizens Leadership Academy this year.

“We feel it is important for people to be a part of their community, and this program is a great way to experience the different parts of our local government,” said Eastern Bank Branch Manager Brian Main.

Participants are not required to make every meeting, but regular attendance is strongly encouraged. This program is free of charge and open to Dover residents. For more information or to register, call Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce Community Events Manager Morgan Faustino at (603) 742-2218 or email him at events@dovernh.org. You can also register online at dovernh.org/citizens-leadership-academy.

Original source can be found here.