Rockport Citizen University

Objective:

Familiarize citizens with the structure, functions, and activities of City of Rockport government, encourage citizens to become involved in the City’s government, and enhance their ability to communicate effectively with City officials.

Citizens are encouraged to apply for the 2026 Rockport Citizens University by December 15, 2025. Join Citizens University to acquire a better understanding of your City government and services, interact with City officials to share valuable insights into residents' priorities and needs from their involvement.

 Use this link to download the form, complete and mail or email to the City Secretary.

Benefits:

  • Informed residents are better able to become involved in community activities, such as serving on Council-appointed boards, commissions, committees, and task forces, as well as becoming involved in the City’s governance.
  • Opportunity for residents to learn about the City of Rockport government, first-hand, and gain exposure to the wide range of City services, functions, activities, and issues.
  • Obtain feedback from residents regarding governmental programs and services.

Class Size:

Classes are limited to 15-20 students. Rockport Citizens University is open for City of Rockport residents.

Participant Requirements:

Applicants must:

  • Be registered voters within the City of Rockport.
  • Have been a resident for at least one year.
  • Be 18 years or older.
  • Not be running for local political office during class time.

Curriculum:

The Rockport Citizens University will consist of 10 sessions over the course of ten months with a Graduation held at the December 8, 2026, City Council meeting. Each session will be approximately 1.5 hour sessions and will begin on February 19, 2026.

Sessions will begin at (time to be determined), except for the bus tour, which begins at (a time to be determined). Refreshments will be provided. Please note the various locations.
 
 Staff contact: 
Shelley Goodwin, City Secretary, Rockport Service Center, 212 N. Live Oak, Rockport, Texas 78382

361-729-2213, ext. 225 
sgoodwin@rockporttx.gov email

Session 1 - Getting to Know Your City Government, Mayor, City Council, and City Manager

February 19, 2026

Session 2 – What does the City Secretary do, and what is the role of the Municipal Court?

March 19, 2026

Session 3 -   Public Safety - Police Department/Communication Center

April 16, 2026

Session 4 - Parks & Leisure Department/Special Events

May 21, 2026

Session 5 - Finance/Utilities/Projects

June 18, 2026

Session 6 - Building & Development/Code Enforcement/Inspections

July 16, 2026

Session 7 - Information Technology/ /Human Resources/Rockport Volunteer Fire Department

August 20, 2026

Session 8 - Economic Development/Chamber of Commerce/Convention & Visitor Bureau

September 17, 2026

Session 9 - Public Works and touring the City Facilities 

October 15, 2026

Session 10 - Opportunities to Serve/Vision for the City/Roundtable with the City Council

November 19, 2026

Graduation Award at City Council Meeting

December 8, 2026

(at 5:00 p.m.)