We are so thrilled for the opportunity to present to OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Southern Oregon University).
Below is our "Better Together" series that covers City Operations. Dubbed by OLLI participants as “Civics 101,” these presentations highlight the operations of City departments.
Following the "Better Together" series is our "Show Me the Money" series. This is your chance to learn about the finances of local government - The City's fund structure, revenue streams, major expenses and what the City can and cannot spend money on.
In the spring of 2025, the City was honored with the League of Oregon Cities' 2025 Good Governance Award for innovative Lifelong Learning Courses, recognizing efforts to engage and educate residents - Learn more.
FALL 2025: Better Together, The Work of the City of Ashland
- September 17, City Manager's Office (includes Human Resources and Finance)
- October 1, Community Development
- October 8, Ashland Fire & Rescue
- October 15, Ashland Police
- October 22, Ashland Parks & Recreation
- October 29, Electric
- Nov 5, Public Works
No recording on September 24
SPRING 2025: Show Me the Money!*
- April 2 Introduction and Fund Structure
- April 9, Major Revenue and Expenses
- April 23, Budget Process
- April 30, Property Taxes
- May 7, Economic Development
- May 14, Debt
No class on April 16
FALL 2024: The "Better Together"*
- September 19 Introduction to Course and City Manager’s Office: Recorder, Emergency Management, Communications and Economic Development
- September 26 GIS (Geographic Information System) & AFN (Ashland Fiber Network): Mapping, data & Fiber Network
- October 3 Fire & Wildfire
- October 10 “Show me the Money,” City Finances and Budget
- October 17 Police
- October 24 Public Works
- October 31 Electric & Conservation
- November 7 Parks & Recreation
- November 14 Community Development, Affordable Housing & course wrap-up
*The Q&A portions were not recorded in these series.
More on OLLI at sou.edu/olli.
"We are Better Together!"
Learn more about your local government with the Civic Education Toolkit provided by OCCMA (Oregon City/County Management Association), ashlandoregon.gov/Civics101.