City Link Springfield Set to Return

October 20-November 17

In 2019, the City of Springfield launched City Link, a program that works to empower under-represented leaders in Springfield to better understand and participate in their local government. Postponed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the innovative program is coming back with virtual sessions this fall!

Through City Link, participants will meet with leaders from City departments and divisions to gain a better understanding of how their government works, build contacts, and ask questions.

Following the course, participants will be in a great position to help their neighbors understand and access City government as City liaisons.

The five-week virtual course will be held from 5:30-7 p.m., Wednesdays from October 20 – November 17. Applications are available at http://www.springfield-or.gov/city/city-managers-office/city-link/. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m., Wednesday, October 13.  

Participants will learn more about City leadership, history and ethics, finance, hiring at the City, building and maintaining a city, and public safety.

City Link was developed to:

• Eliminate some of the fear and confusion that often exists between local government and under-represented communities.
• Provide thoughtful, coordinated and structured learning opportunities for a cohort of under-represented communities based on the services provided by local government.
• Serve as a model for other communities to build community engagement.

City Link goals include: 

• Build a cohort of knowledgeable liaisons within the six wards that make up Springfield. In this role, they could serve as connections for under-represented communities who need assistance or have questions but are uncomfortable directly contacting their local government representatives.
• Increase participation by the under-represented community in City boards, committees and elected positions and increasing positive interactions between the under-represented community and City officials.
• Build long-term partnerships with other cities that would replicate the program.

Community members interested in learning more may contact Springfield Assistant City Manager Niel Laudati
at 541.726.3700 or nlaudati@springfield-or.gov.