The City of Concord believes in creating partnerships with the residents who live and work in our city. We believe this partnership keeps our quality of life at a high level and allows us to provide the best services possible.
To help build this partnership, City of Concord Communications, Fire, and Police staff are proud to host a Citizen Public Safety Academy each spring. This course allows residents to learn about the functions of Concord's public safety departments, meet staff, and help us evaluate the services we provide. The course is offered to adults aged 18 and older.
The Citizen Public Safety Academy is an eight-week course with classes beginning in mid-February. Classes are held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
During the course, the Concord Police Department instructs three classes on all functions of the department and gives an in-depth look at its evidence-based community policing philosophy. Three classes are also be taught by Fire Department staff, including presentations on the various services provided as well as how all of us can be safer in our daily lives. One class is scheduled with the Communications Department to explain what happens when you call 911. The eighth week is a graduation dinner to honor academy participants.
Registration Information
Registration for the 2026 program is not yet open.
For more information on the Citizen Public Safety Academy, please contact Lindsay Manson, Public Affairs Manager, at 704-920-5210 or by email.
2025 Course Schedule
The 8-week course began on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 and continued each consecutive Tuesday evening through April 1, 2025. Class was held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. each week.
The complete class schedule, with the location for each week, is available online.
Course Instructors
Jimmy Hughes – Chief of Police
Jake Williams – Fire Chief
Bethany Ledwell – Communications Director
20th Citizen Public Safety Academy, Class of 2025
Graduates (in alphabetical order): Gabe Aldridge, Cora Billingsley, Lauren Brooks, Beth Butchko, Kenneth Cox, Nikki Jones, Jack Lambert, Jia Li, Greg Murphy, Kathy Murphy, Earl Myers, Robin Patterson, Stephanie Patterson, Brent Plott, Andreina Ramirez, Mondo Santacruz, Don Seitz, Tanisha Smoutherson, Lisa Velazquez, Catherine Whiteford.