City of Santa Paula invites residents to apply for the second cohort of the Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy

Read the full bilingual press release…

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce the return of the Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy and invites residents and local businesses to apply for Cohort II. This nine-week civic leadership program is designed to educate and engage community members by providing an in-depth look at City government, operations, and local decision-making.

Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, the Academy offers participants a unique opportunity to connect directly with City leadership and staff while learning how municipal services are delivered and how policy decisions are made. The program aims to strengthen civic knowledge, promote transparency, and foster meaningful relationships between the City and the community it serves.

“The Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy creates opportunities for residents and business owners to better understand how the City operates, ask questions, and connect with the people who serve them every day,” said City Manager Dan Singer. “We are excited to welcome a new group of participants who want to be active partners in shaping Santa Paula’s future.”

Throughout the nine-week program, participants will take part in presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities. Sessions will highlight the roles and responsibilities of key City departments, including Public Safety, Public Works, Finance, Community and Economic Development, and Parks and Recreation.

The Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy is open to Santa Paula residents and business owners ages 18 and older who are interested in civic engagement, leadership development, and community involvement. No prior government experience is required.

Program Schedule

Programming will take place on Monday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., beginning March 2, 2026 and concluding May 11, 2026. Light food and refreshments will be provided. A spring break recess will be observed from March 30,2026 through April 10, 2026.

How to Apply

Applications for Cohort II open January 20, 2026. Applications are available online at https://bit.ly/49FdGcu or may be requested in person at City Hall. Completed applications must be submitted by February 13, 2026. Space is limited.

Accepted participants will be required to pay a $25 program fee prior to the start of the program. Payment may be made by cash or check payable to the Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy and submitted at City Hall.

For more information, visit www.spcity.org/734/Santa-Paula-Future-Leaders-Academy or contact Nicholle Azpera at nazpera@spcity.org or (805) 933-4201, ext. 234.

About the City of Santa Paula

The City of Santa Paula is Ventura County’s Hidden Gem—a vibrant, culturally rich community located in the heart of the county. Incorporated in 1902, Santa Paula spans approximately 5.7 square miles and is home to more than 31,700 residents. The City delivers a full range of services through six departments and proudly preserves its small-town charm while advancing economic growth, public safety, and community engagement. Just 65 miles northwest of Los Angeles, Santa Paula offers convenient access to a wide variety of recreational, cultural, and business opportunities.

From vintage planes at our local airport to scenic railcar adventures and classic car Cruise Nights that draw thousands to our historic downtown, Santa Paula brings planes, trains, and automobiles to life. Learn more at www.spcity.org.