Travis H
owell, a long-time Davison Township (Genesee Co.) public servant currently serving on its zoning board of appeals, has taken the next step to further enhance the effectiveness of his township by completing the Michigan Townships Association’s (MTA) Township Governance Academy (TGA). Through his participation in the intensive education program, Howell was able to learn enhanced tools and decision-making processes that can help positively impact Davison Township for years to come.
Howell was among the members of the Academy “Graduating Class of 2023” honored on stage during a recognition ceremony held April 18 at the Association’s Annual Educational Conference at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme Township. The program helped to provide Howell with a strong foundation of the government closest to the people and the critical services that townships offer to residents.
“The Academy provides resources and knowledge to work with others to ensure that our community continues to be a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family,” Howell said.
Howell first began serving the township in 2012 on the library board, a position he held for six years. In addition, he has served on the fire authority and planning commission, and as a township trustee, from 2018 to 2020. Howell’s passion for serving the community developed when he was a youth.
“Growing up in scouting, I have a strong commitment to public service,” said Howell, an Eagle Scout. “I learned at a young age to set goals and work to achieve them—which was my motivation to get more involved in my community.”
In addition to his roles with the township, Howell has been a Davison American Youth Soccer Association coach and board member since 2011, and is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Davison Area Historical Society, Sons of the American Legion Post 267, and Outreach East board. In addition, he is a Genesee Metro Alliance trustee and board member, Genesee County certified tourism ambassador and deacon at Eastgate Baptist Church.
TGA is a voluntary credentialing program intended to provide township officials and leaders with knowledge and expanded skills needed to assist in making more effective decisions for the benefit of their township. The Academy, which challenges candidates to tie together learning and practical experience, consists of 11 courses and includes a requirement for elective credits.
Created and administered by MTA, this program is designed to professionally challenge township leaders by offering new ideas, sharing best practices and providing a hands-on approach to dealing more effectively with everyday issues that the township may face.