The Kirkland Initiative

Objective 14.2 of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Roadmap(PDF, 365KB)  calls for the creation of a City Leadership Program to cultivate civic engagement for the purpose of diversifying public participation in various governmental processes and neighborhood organizations.

The goal of The Kirkland Initiative is to make City Hall accessible by pulling back the layers of local government, so, people from all walks of life will be encouraged to participate in the civic process. Also, participants will be encouraged to bring the knowledge and understanding gained to other community members.  

Watch the promotional video below that launched this program in 2023. Scroll down for information on the 2024 program and how to register.

2024 Kirkland Initiative Program - Registration begins Fall 2024

The 8-week, 3-hour course runs every Thursday evening from 6pm - 9pm beginning September 26 through November 21, 2024. 

Course topics range from learning more about City Council to Public Works to Community Responders and more. 

Certificates are awarded to all participants completing the course. Registration link and more information coming August 2024.

2024 Course Schedule:

Week 1 - September 26     City Council and Boards & Commissions

Week 2 - October 3            City Manager's Office & City Attorney's Office

Week 3 - October 10          Internal Services

Week 4 - October 17          Planning & Building

Week 5 - October 24          Public Works

Week 6 - November 7        Parks & Human Services

Week 7 - November 14      Municipal Court & Police

Week 8 - November 21      Fire & Community Responders & Graduation Night!