News

New Core of the City Academy gives public upclose look at government

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 24, 2025

The city of Hendersonville is inviting the public to enroll in the inaugural Core of the City Academy, a free eight-week program designed to give community members a behind-the-scenes look at how local government works. 

The city invites anyone curious about municipal operations to apply. Applications open Jan. 5. The minimum age for enrollment is 18. The program is limited to 20 participants. 
Core of the City Academy will connect participants directly with department heads, city leaders, and front-line staff to learn how the city supports residents, businesses, visitors, and customers each day. Over the course of eight weekly evening sessions, participants will explore City Hall, City Operations, Fire Station 1, the Water Treatment Plant, the Wastewater Treatment Plant and more. A full schedule will be provided upon enrollment. Dinner will be served at each session. 
Participants must attend at least six of the eight sessions and complete one extracurricular activity, such as a Police or Fire Department ride-along or attending a public meeting. Graduates will be formally recognized by City Council at its May 6 meeting. 
“Transparency is a top priority for City Council,” said Deputy City Manager Brian Pahle. “The Core of the City Academy gives residents a hands-on understanding of how their tax dollars are spent, the responsibilities and limits of municipal services, and the people who make the work possible. By increasing awareness, we hope to empower more community members to engage with city processes, serve on boards and committees, or even pursue careers with the City.” 
Applications may be submitted online at hvlnc.gov/COTC or at the Customer Service window at City Hall. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Feb. 20. 
Classes run weekly from March 10 through April 28, 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. For more information, visit hvlnc.gov/COTC.