This free, self-paced learning journey takes you through MTA’s “little red book” chapter by chapter. Earn credits by completing courses that take you deeper into the topics covered within each chapter. These courses will help you develop broad awareness of township roles and responsibilities, and ensure you are equipped for any challenge facing your community.
Michigan Townships Association
Upcoming Training
Seats are filling fast for MTA's 2025 Professional Development Retreats
If you’ve never experienced the camaraderie and connection of an MTA Retreat, now is the time! Coming to Frankenmuth this fall, these two-day events are packed with specialized educational sessions, networking and fun!
Each retreat offers an immersive learning experience geared to your role, focused on concepts, trends and pressing issues, plus the opportunity to connect with colleagues who face the same challenges you do and vendors who can help you serve your community more efficiently and effectively.
Several Retreats are nearly sold out, so don’t wait! Use the links below to learn more OR click here to register online now.
- Clerks – Sept. 29 & 30 (currently sold out; email rebecca@michigantownships.org to be added to the wait list)
- Treasurers – Oct. 1 & 2 (nearly sold out!)
- Supervisors – Oct. 14 & 15
- Trustees – Oct. 27 & 28
- Planning & Zoning Team – Oct. 29 & 30
Thank you to our 2025 Retreat Sponsors!
MTA’s live monthly webinar series offers a new topic every month!
On October 22, join us live at noon for:
Governmental Immunity: Wait, I Can Get in Trouble for That?!
Ever wonder where the line is between your responsibilities and personal liability? Can you really get in trouble for that vote, action or comment?
In this one-hour webinar, we’ll break down governmental immunity in plain language—explaining what protections exist for townships (and their officials!) and where the limits are. Through real-world examples and practical guidance, you’ll gain a clear understanding of when you’re covered and when you’re not–all in one hour!
Click here to register now!
Looking for more on-demand training? Visit the Now You Know page for past and future topics or visit our Online Learning Center for a full listing of available online classes.
Have you heard about MTA Online?
Is your township considering purchasing an annual subscription to MTA’s Online Learning Center? Click here to read all about it OR Click here to see a list of what’s included in each of the three levels.
Ready to log in and start learning, but need a little guidance? For a written approach, download or print this Getting Started with MTA Online document.
Still have questions? Email education@michigantownships.org to learn more about how your entire township team can get unlimited access today.
To subscribe (or continue your subscription), click here.
The Township Governance Academy (TGA) is a voluntary credentialing program that was created to give township board members and other local leaders the in-depth knowledge and skills needed to make effective decisions for the benefit of their township. It’s designed to professionally challenge you and enhance your experience serving as an elected official.
Eliminate travel costs and schedule conflicts with this convenient, affordable option that delivers education directly to your desktop. Learn at your own pace (and convenience!) from the comfort of your home, office or township hall. Purchasing individual webcasts a la carte, or get access for your entire team with an annual subscription package.
Upcoming MTA Training
Click the links below for more details!
A Year Ahead in MTA Ed(ucation)
Wondering what other classes MTA is hosting this year? We’re glad you asked! Click here for details so that you and your team can plan ahead.
Love our Now You Know webinar series? Click here to see upcoming topics for the remainder of 2025!
CONTINUE THE LEARNING
New Releases: Did you miss it? Now available on-demand:
- Revenue Sources: Coins in the Couch – All townships must set their 2025 tax rates by the end of September. Are you ready? MTA staff attorney Catherine Mullhaupt provides an overview of revenue sources, including property taxes, and the ways different types may—or may not—be used. On-demand version coming soon!
- Coverage Matters: Surety Bonds & Insurance 101 – Break down the fundamentals of township insurance and surety bonds in plain terms, from what types of coverage your township should have to knowing when it’s time to pick up the phone and call your agent.
- Mid-year Legislative Update – MTA’s Government Relations team breaks down the 2025 legislative session to date and shares key issues at the forefront plus measures on the horizon, and their impact on your role as a township official—all in just one hour. It’s a great way to stay ahead of the legislative tide.
- Preventing Chaos: How to Manage Records – Whether you’re new to the field or looking to refine your skills, you’ll gain practical tips on improving efficiency, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding your township’s records–all in just one hour!
- The Perks of the Job: Understanding Municipal Benefits – Navigating employee benefits in the public sector can be tricky—but it doesn’t have to be. This webinar will help you understand your responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your township remains compliant and competitive.
Our Now You Know one-hour webinars feature a new topic every month. We record them every episode for on-demand access. Click here to see what’s available on-demand and get a sneak peak of what’s coming up next.
Ready to take the next step in your learning journey? MTA’s Township Governance Academy is an innovative credentialing program designed exclusively for township officials and leaders in Michigan. Get started today.
Need to register new members of your township team for an MTA training?
Individuals must first be added to your township roster in our database in order to be registered.
All clerks and treasurers from member townships have authorization to make changes to other individuals on the township roster from the MTA website. For detailed instructions, click here.
Please complete this form or email a list of your updates to database@michigantownships.org. Be sure to include township/county, as well as name, title and email address for each new individual. An email address is required to access any live or on-demand online training, or to receive event or purchase confirmations. Email addresses must be unique, and may not be used for more than one individual at a time.
For tips on navigating a live streamed class, visit www.mta.events.
For help getting started with an on-demand webcast visit our Online Learning Center’s Getting Started page, or check out our FAQs page.