An Insider’s View of South Bend

South Bend’s Local Government Academy is a shining example of open government policies at their best. It’s a series of ten weekly classes which takes you through the workings of the city government. I am enrolled in the current session and in the first two weeks have toured the Mayor’s office and the Main Street Fire Department. It is a friendly chance to see exactly what your tax dollars pay for and to ask top officials the questions you’ve always wondered – from “How long does it take to cut a car in half with the ‘Jaws of Life’?” to those regarding the finer points of tax policy.

The class is open to everyone and draws an interesting mix of retirees, business-types and teachers. This session has about twenty participants but seems have room for more. If you’re interested in the next session, contact the Mayor’s Office at 574.235.9261 or apply online.