Coventry is accepting applications for its first Citizens Municipal Academy, a hands-on introduction to how town government works. Applications for the 2026–27 class are due November 12, and the first session is scheduled for November 18.
The program is limited to the first 40 qualified applicants. Participants must be at least 18 and qualify through Coventry residency, property ownership in town or management of a town business, according to the program page. The online application also lists business owners among its eligibility choices.
The Town Council established the academy through Resolution 2026-15, adopted October 5. The resolution calls for staff presentations and facility visits to explain municipal responsibilities and services. It provides for evaluation within two years and a March 1, 2028 sunset unless the council extends the program.
The current class schedule lists nine sessions, running into February 2027. The opening meeting covers town governance, elections and records on November 18. Finance, budgeting, assessment and taxation follow December 2; planning, zoning, land use and building are scheduled December 9. All three meet from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Town Hall Annex, 1712 Main Street.
Public Works hosts a January 9 session from 9 to 11 a.m. at 100 Olsen Farm Road. The Police Department session is January 13, 6 to 8 p.m., at 1585 Main Street. Fire/EMS follows January 20, 6 to 8 p.m., at Fire Station 118, 1755 Main Street.
Human Services, Parks and Recreation meet January 27, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Senior Center, 172 Lake Street. The library session is February 3, 6 to 8 p.m., at Booth & Dimock Library, 1134 Main Street. The final listed session, wastewater utility operations, is February 6, 9 to 11 a.m., at the treatment plant, 394 Main Street.
Participants completing all sessions are to receive a certificate and recognition at a Town Council meeting. The application includes consent for the town to photograph or record participants for town informational and promotional use. Applicants can review that language and submit through the town’s linked form.
The Town Manager’s office is the public contact for questions at 860-742-6324. The program materials and class schedule linked below provide the town’s current details.