By David Pan/Lynnwood Today editor 

Time is running out for residents interested in learning more about how their city government works.

Lynnwood University’s Class of 2013 is about to embark on what should be an educational and fun eight-week look at how local government works in the city of Lynnwood.

The goal of Lynnwood University is to provide residents with an increased understanding of how their government works and what city programs and services are available.

The first class is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 5 and subsequent classes also will be on Thursday evenings. All classes are scheduled to be from 6-8:30 p.m. at various locations in the city.

Jenny Dear and her fiancé Simon Farretta bought a house in Lynnwood three years ago and not long after they saw a flyer about the program.

“I hoped to learn the ins and outs of the city and what it was all about,” Dear said.

After the eight weeks, Dear left with a far better understanding of the city she lives in.

“It exceeded my expectations,” Dear said of the classes. “Every presenter was so open and willing and excited to be working for Lynnwood. They were willing to take questions. It really felt like a community. … It didn’t feel like this big huge city where you were just a number. You felt like you’re a citizen and they cared about you and they valued that you lived in Lynnwood. They wanted your input in making your city better.”

Since Dear has lived in Lynnwood for only three years, she especially appreciated learning the history of the city and what used to be here.

“The fire department was very informative,” Dear added. “You got to try on outfits and use the fire hose.”

Dear also found the tour of the traffic management center interesting. Many people, she noted, complain about the length of the light at 44th Avenue West and 196th Street Southwest.

“You learn how street lights work,” Dear said. “It (light) is not as long are you think it is.”

Dear didn’t miss a class and remembers the eight weeks as going fast.

Her advice to prospective students?

“Do it. Take it. Try it,” Dear said. “Enjoy it. Get the most out of it. Ask questions. Be engaged. You get to meet other people who live in the area. … It’s worth doing.”

There is no charge to attend Lynnwood University.

Click here to register online, or contact Julie Moore at 425-670-5023 or by email atjmoore@ci.lynnwood.wa.us.