City aims to boost civic involvement through series of workshops

The city and the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, which encourages philanthropy, are co-sponsoring a series of workshops to boost civic engagement among residents.

Speakers from various city departments, including public safety, public works and community development, will explain how the departments operate as part of the event, titled Leadership Laguna.

“The goal is getting new people involved with the city,” said program organizer Anne Johnson, a planning commissioner. “There are a lot of opportunities to serve as a volunteer ... we want to get the younger gang involved.”

Johnson noted that Councilman Robert Zur Schmiede broached the topic of boosting resident involvement in civic matters during his 2014 council campaign.

In addition to describing how city government works, organizers hope that through the workshops, residents will consider participating on city committees and commissions and perhaps mull a run for a seat on the City Council, according to a news release.

Workshops, open to all Laguna residents, will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on five consecutive Thursdays from May 5 through June 2. City Manager John Pietig and finance director Gavin Curran will kick off the series as featured speakers May 5.

Foundation Executive Director Dan Pingaro and foundation board Chairman Tom Davis will introduce each program.

“Laguna Beach is a town that has given back so much to its residents,” Davis said in the release. “It’s essential that as a community we play an active role in helping to maintain what we love so much about our home. Participating in Leadership Laguna is a great first step for anyone wanting to get involved.”

Residents interested in attending the workshops must submit an online application by going to lagunabeachcf.org/leadershiplaguna. Space is limited. Registration will be confirmed by email on April 29.