Redwood City's
Partnership Academy for Community Teamwork (PACT)

Unfortunately, due to the City's severe budget constraints, the PACT program is on hiatus for 2011. We hope to re-start it in 2012.

In the meantime, click here to learn more about PACT and to be placed on the list to be notified of future PACT sessions.

PACT is an exciting and dynamic nine-week academy that engages participants in a hands-on overview of City government, and involves them in helping to strengthen our community. This spring program takes place one evening a week and offers interesting activities illustrating how the City works, how our community is developing, and how we can all work together toward building a greater community.

Here are just a few comments from some of the nearly 400 people that have been through Redwood City's PACT program so far:

• "I wish private enterprises would run more like the City"
  
• "I'm amazed at how much I took for granted, in what the City does"
  
• "I didn't realize what it takes to run the City's services – and how enthusiastic the employees are"
  
• "This program helped to broaden my perspective"
  
• "It made me proud to live here – I feel like it's not just a city, it's MY city"
  
• "For the first time since I've lived here, when I leave work I now feel like I'm coming home"
  
• "It was great to see the level of professionalism in all the presentations"
  
• "I feel proud that the City opened its doors to all the departments, and answered any and all questions openly and honestly – it was very impressive"

This fun and informative program covers everything from Public Works to the Police Department, from the City Council to Finance, from the Fire Department to the Library, and everything in between! It's a great opportunity for interested members of the Redwood City community to become an expert in how the City operates, and get an insider's view of where the City is going.

Through PACT, we want to involve and engage people in learning about and understanding the operation of City government, and to improve communication between the City and those who live and work here, in order to strengthen and enhance our community. Participants learn how decisions are made, how City funds are allocated, and how City departments operate with each other, and they get to sit down with City Council members to discuss any issues they'd like.

PACT sessions begin in April. Registration is available approximately two months prior to the start of the program. Registration forms can be obtained from the City Manager's office, located in City Hall at 1017 Middlefield Road, or by calling 650-780-7300. Forms are also available online. Enrollment is limited to 40 participants. High school students are welcome! (parent or guardian must sign liabaility waiver).

Starting in 2010, there will be a $25 fee for each participant in PACT (payable at the first session). This small contribution will help to offset the costs of the program, including materials and food. As you may know, the City's budget situation continues to be very difficult, as we struggle with fewer resources to provide needed services to the community, so your understanding is appreciated. If you feel this fee is a true obstacle to your participation, please call the City Manager's office and we'll work to find a solution.

The more people know about and are involved in City government, the greater success and health Redwood City can experience. The City's progress is built upon our diverse communities, our civic pride, our strong neighborhoods, and each individual's sense of responsibility for making the City a better place for everyone – we want people to be involved in PACT as one way of strengthening our community, and building a better City.