SPENCER — Taking a cue in its name from the New Yorker, the town of Spencer is kicking off a new community engagement program Feb. 25 titled “Talk of the Town.”

Meetings will be held quarterly and are described as an “a la carte” version of a citizens academy for the community.

A citizens academy is new for Spencer but the idea is already in operation in several towns and cities in North Carolina and elsewhere. The academies are programs designed and conducted by local governments to “create better informed and engaged citizens,” said a press release from Town Manager Peter Franzese.

“The North Carolina City/County Management Association (NCCCMA), the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) School of Government (SOG), and other entities have researched best practices and offered guidance to communities who provide or would like to start an academy. This includes a website and published handbook from UNC faculty member Rick Morse and his contributors and colleagues,” the press release states.

Programs in Spencer will be held on Tuesdays in February, April, September and November at 6:15 p.m. The first, on Feb. 25, will focus on the town’s budget process and future topics will be announced as dates get closer. Anticipated dates are April 15, Sept. 16 and Nov. 18. Potential topics include police, code enforcement, fire, planning, getting involved, solid waste, streets, recreation, and more.

Anyone who would like to attend Talk of the Town on Feb. 25 should register at spencernc.gov/talk-of-the-town.

“Our staff and elected officials are committed to finding new ways to connect with Spencer’s residents, businesses, and visitors, and we are excited about this new opportunity,” said Franzese. “We hope to see you soon at one of these or another of our upcoming meetings or events this year. Thank you for partnering with us as we build a model community.”