As dusk fell on Snoqualmie Thursday, Oct. 4, the 19 members of the city’s first-ever citizens academy were off on a trip. Their mission: to find out where their water comes from.

The group took whirlwind tours of city facilities, visiting public works, water treatment and the police and fire stations over the course of several evenings this fall with city staff members including the police chief and fire chief, showing the way.

There can’t be many people that drive by the police station or fire department and don’t wonder what goes on inside, said Snoqualmie Police Chief Jim Schaffer.

“This way, they get an idea,” he said.

The citizens academy, which was held Sept. 27 through Oct. 18, was organized by Snoqualmie City Clerk Jodi Warren as a way to introduce people to how the city works, what services it provides and how to get involved.

“It’s an outstanding way for citizens to basically see what they’re paying for,” Schaffer said.

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