Lawton, OK – The City of Lawton has officially kicked off its 2026 Citizens Academy, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at how local government operates.
During the first week, attendees met with staff from the City Manager’s Office and Lawton Arts and Humanities, where they learned how city government functions, explored the Capital Improvements Program (CIP), and received updates on upcoming projects.
Participants also got an inside look at the events and programs coordinated by Lawton Arts and Humanities before wrapping up the evening with a tour of the newly renovated McMahon Memorial Auditorium.
The auditorium is set to officially reopen during Lawton’s 125th Birthday Celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 8, scheduled from 7 a.m. to noon.
The Citizens Academy is designed to give residents a better understanding of city operations by introducing them to different departments and services throughout the program. City officials said additional weekly sessions will continue highlighting various aspects of municipal government and the work being done to serve the Lawton community.
