Deschutes County, Ore. – The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners and County Administration welcomed the inaugural class of the Deschutes County College free government course on Tuesday evening. The ten‑week program, which runs from August through October, is designed to give county residents a practical education in how local government operates.
Curriculum focused on everyday services
Each weekly session covers a core area of county responsibility. Topics include road maintenance, the county elections office, public safety, public and behavioral health, land‑use planning, solid waste and recycling, and the county budgeting process. Participants hear directly from staff members and elected officials, gaining insight into the decision‑making that affects daily life in Deschutes County.
Hands‑on learning and facility tours
Beyond classroom instruction, the course offers guided tours of key county facilities. Students visit the Deschutes 9‑1‑1 dispatch center, Knott Landfill, the elections office, and the road department. These tours allow participants to see operations in action and ask questions of the professionals who keep the county running.
Eligibility and application process
To qualify, applicants must live, work full‑time, or own a business within Deschutes County. All candidates must also pass a background check before enrollment. Space is limited, and the application deadline for the 2026 session was July 10. While the current cohort is now full, interested residents can apply for the 2027 session when the application window reopens.
Community impact
Local leaders view the program as a way to strengthen civic engagement and transparency. By educating residents about county functions, the initiative supports informed participation in local governance—a cornerstone of both strong families and a free society. The course aligns with the county’s broader effort to promote public‑service careers and foster a deeper connection between citizens and their government.
How to stay informed
Future sessions and updates will be posted on the Deschutes County College website and through county communication channels. Residents interested in learning more about local government operations are encouraged to follow these resources and consider applying when the next enrollment period opens.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
