Michigan Townships Association

Educational Sessions

Our educational sessions are designed for township elected and appointed officials and your entire township team, from communities of all sizes, to enhance your knowledge, skills and effectiveness as a leader, regardless your level of experience. Topics address statutory duties, and a variety of concepts, trends and current issues in township government. Sessions that are part of our Conference On-Demand are denoted with a (session recording assistance provided by Shumaker Technology Group). Sessions with    fulfill requirements in MTA’s Red Book Red program. Schedule is subject to change. Consult your program on-site for the final schedule.

Tuesday, April 1

Business Solution Sessions – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

These sessions, presented by MTA Allied Service Providers, provide information about various aspects of products and services available to assist townships. 

Harnessing Technology to Enhance Experience and Culture

Most municipalities use technology to streamline their processes, reduce overhead and even enhance their culture. Have you ever considered tapping into technology to enhance engagement of your own township team? Learn tools and techniques that can help increase productivity and build a succession plan for the future. 

Speaker: Michael Migdol, Director of Sales, Acrisure
Grid Investments that Deliver Dependable Service to Your Community

Learn more about Consumers Energy’s Reliability Roadmap. The five-year commitment by Michigan’s largest energy provider aims to create a stronger and smarter energy grid, making major investments in your communities to strengthen the grid, increase reliability and improve restoration efforts for customers. 

Speakers: Consumers Energy Representatives

Employee Relationships: The Care and Feeding of Good Employees

An in-depth look at overcoming hurdles, differences and challenges to foster a productive, effective culture for employees, and provide a better community for your constituents. 

Speaker: Heidi Hudson, Attorney, EMC Insurance

Lightning Talks with Township Attorneys

Fahey Shultz logoFuel up with lunch while our expert attorneys serve up fast, thought-provoking mini-presentations on the hottest municipal topics. In just five minutes each, you’ll gain quick insights, actionable advice and real-world lessons learned. From zoning disputes to surprising Freedom of Information Act requests, these lightning talks are packed with knowledge—and maybe even a laugh or two. Stick around to ask questions or share your own stories during this engaging, interactive session.

Speakers: Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC Attorneys

Gain a practical perspective of some of the hottest topics facing townships, including wind and solar energy, the latest on zoning, land use and other issues that may arise. Have a topic you want addressed? Email info@fosterswift.com by Mach 1 and the most requested topics may be included. All are welcome; lunch is guaranteed for the first 100 who RSVP to jleuvoy@fosterswift.com or (517) 371-8125. 

Speaker: Michael Homier and Laura Genovich, Attorneys, Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC
Preventing Playground Pitfalls

Michigan municipalities are investing more resources in their parks and playgrounds than ever before. This includes installing safer playscapes. But safety doesn’t stop with the purchase or new equipment. To help protect your investment and manage risk, you must perform regular playground inspections to identify and correct potential hazards. Learn how to thoroughly and effectively maintain your playgrounds and your liability protection. 

Speaker: Lori Burton, Risk Control Field Representative, Michigan Township Participating Plan
Whose Land Is It Anyway?

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of very old, platted subdivisions in Michigan. Some contain parks, beaches, walkways, alleys and other features that were originally dedicated “to the public.” Questions often arise about the validity of these dedications and the proper use of the dedicated lands. This session will help you gain a better understanding of publicly dedicated lands within plats in your township. 

Speaker: Lori Burton, Risk Control Field Representative, Michigan Township Participating Plan
Concurrent Sessions – 1 to 2:15 p.m.
Assessment Administration Responsibilities

The township board is responsible for ensuring the township’s assessment administration meets state requirements. Review the board’s responsibility for hiring a qualified assessor and walk away with tips for ensuring your assessment administration function has the resources to perform efficiently, effectively and consistently with requirements imposed by the state. 

Speaker: Cindy Dodge, Owner, LOR Consulting
Audit-Ready: Preparing Your Township for a Smooth Audit

Preparing for an audit can be a complex task requiring careful organization and attention to detail. We’ll provide practical tips and best practices to ensure your township is audit-ready, reducing stress and streamlining the process. We’ll tackle key areas like organizing financial records, understanding audit timelines and improving internal controls to address common audit findings. Walk away with clarify, confidence and strategies for a successful audit for your township. 

Speakers: Heather Farmer, Government Finance Specialist, and Adam Frost, Manager Maner Costerisan
Discrimination, Harassment and Hostile Work Environments

Nearly everyone has heard the term “hostile work environment,” and just about everyone has some idea what harassment and discrimination are. But those terms—and how they work in the township hall—are commonly misunderstood. This confusion can result in misunderstandings, inconsistent treatment, and might even allow discrimination or harassment to continue unchecked. Learn what unlawful discrimination and harassment mean to attorneys, what a “hostile work environment” is, and what steps you must take to address these problems in your township. 

Speaker: Helen “Lizzie” Mills, Member and Tom Forgione, Attorney, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC
Hot Issues for Township Fire Departments

Providing emergency and fire protection services for your community may be one of the more complicated (and critical) services your township provides. This session brings clarity to the challenges that come with protecting your community and your firefighters. Gain insights into the latest training requirements and certifications, explore strategies for prioritizing personnel’s physical and mental health, and learn methods for building and maintaining a strong team.

Speaker: State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer, Bureau of Fire Services, Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Insights from Inside the Capitol

2024 provided an interesting mix of legislative issues affecting township government—including how the November election results impacted the lame duck session. MTA’s GovernmentRelations team shares the priorities in store for the current 103rd legislative session—from the governor’s and Legislature’s to MTA’s. We’ll break down the policy issues, challenges on the horizon and how the change in control of the state House impacts the legislative agenda—and what it means for your community and residents. Get the latest on the issues and challenges of today’s political landscape, including how your experiences and voice can influence both current and emerging issues impacting townships.

Speakers: MTA Government Relations Staff
Making the Most of Your First Year

You’ve been elected, made it through the first few months and even have a few meetings under your belt. How do you build your confidence and influence to represent your community effectively? What are predictable challenges and interpersonal issues to prepare for? This peer-to-peer panel discussion will share insights into what officials wish they knew when they were first elected. Remember that this discussion conveys the experience, advice and opinions of your fellow officials; it should not be construed as formal MTA or legal advice.

Moderated by Neil Sheridan, MTA Executive Director; panelists to be announced
Open Meetings Act: Why It Matters and Why You Should Care

The Open Meetings Act (OMA) is arguably the law that impacts your township board the most. It impacts every board member, every time the board meets—even before and after the meeting itself. Whether you’re new to the board or looking to refresh your knowledge, you can’t afford to miss this review of OMA requirements. We’ll explore how to properly schedule meetings, establish meeting rules, handle public comment, conduct voting, manage closed sessions, and maintain accurate minutes.

Speaker: Michael Selden, MTA Director of Member Information Services
Powering Up: What Public Act 233 Means for Your Township

Stay informed on the latest developments in renewable energy and how Public Act 233 of 2023 is reshaping the siting of large-scale renewable energy projects. Join MTA legal counsel for expert insights that will clarify new requirements, explore practical implications for your township, and share valuable lessons learned from real-life experiences. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve on this important issue. 

Speaker: Catherine Kaufman, MTA Legal Counsel, Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC
Practical Approach to Records Management

Get an overview of records management from retention and disposal schedules to storage and destruction techniques. Walk away with tips for email retention and reproduction, and ways to tame your “paper tiger.”

Speaker: Sam Beland, Government Records Analyst, Records Management Services, Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget
Work Smart, Live Well

Serving as a township official can often feel like living and working in a fishbowl; every decision you make is visible, and the pressure to meet expectations can be overwhelming. Your ability to serve others begins with taking care of yourself. Explore practical strategies for managing stress, setting healthy boundaries and achieving work-life balance. Walk away with tools for navigating the unique challenges of public service while protecting your well-being and thriving in your role.

Speakers: Nathan Stein, LMSW, Therapist, Corewell Health, and Shila Kiander, MAAO, Director, Mecosta County Equalization
Concurrent Sessions – 2:45 to 4 p.m.
Behind the Paychecks: The Board’s Role in Compensation

The township board—regardless of the size or complexity of the township— plays a key role in determining compensation for officials and employees, and every board member is responsible for overseeing compensation matters. Staying up to date with ever-evolving rules can be a challenge, but make no mistake—the responsibility for setting salaries and ensuring compliance with workplace laws falls squarely on the shoulders of elected township officials.

Speaker: Judy Bigney, MTA Member Information Services Liaison
Community Connection LIVE

Don’t miss this peer-to-peer discussion of challenges and opportunities facing full-service townships. Participants are encouraged to contribute by bringing your own questions (or ideas) to share with the panelists. This discussion conveys the experience, advice and opinions of your fellow officials who may have handled similar situations in their own townships; it should not be construed as formal MTA or legal advice.

Moderated by Neil Sheridan, MTA Executive Director; panelists to be announced
Gathering Input: Squeaky Wheel or General Consensus

We all know “the squeaky wheel gets the grease.” But how can you be certain that what you’re hearing is the direction the board should take? Perhaps you’re only hearing from one board member or a small contingent of your community. We’ll analyze a variety of situations to help you determine whether you’re facing a problem or a squeaky wheel, and provide tips on how to address both.

Speaker: Cindy Dodge, Owner, LOR Consulting
Invest Like a Local: Putting Municipal Money to Work

Do you need guidance with your township’s investment policy or reporting practices? This discussion will explore municipal investments, including a basic overview on strategies for rising and falling interest rate environments and cash flows. We’ll review investment options available to townships under Public Act 20 and share tips for assessing the levels of risk, liquidity and return.

Speaker: Jeff Anderson Sr., Director of Investment Services, Michigan CLASS
My Deputy, Me … and Us

The role of a deputy is crucial to the smooth operation of township government and an indispensable part of your township team. Dive into deputy duties and the role they play, from interaction with township officials to their collaboration with the township board. Explore everything from eligibility and selection to compensation and key responsibilities in this can’t-miss session.

Speaker: Michael Selden, MTA Director of Member Information Services
New Kids on the Block

Any time you have a new member on the board, you have a new board. How do you orient the whole board to the new dynamics of the group? How do you encourage your new member(s) to engage when service on the board has a pretty steep learning curve? Discover orientation techniques that will shorten the learning curve of your new joiners and help them begin contributing their unique talents while collaborating with fellow officials.

Speaker: Susan Radwan, Owner, Leading Edge Mentoring
Stay in Your Lane: Working With Your Road Commission

Explore the options and
benefits of partnering with your road commission to fix the damn roads. You’ll learn practical strategies, hear about unique collaboration efforts, and walk away with insights into what works and what doesn’t!

Speaker: Mark Timmer, Managing Director, Oceana County Road Commission
Summiting the Pension Cost Mountain

Offering pension and retirement benefits can be a critical recruitment and retention tool for townships. But many townships and their employees are still facing rising costs associated with providing those very benefits. Learn strategies for tackling unfunded liability, market volatility and collaborating with stakeholders (like the board, employees and unions) to achieve the balance between offering a strong benefit and ensuring the township and employees can afford it.

Speakers: Marne Daggett, Regional Relationship Manager, Municipal Employees’ Retirement System of Michigan; Helen “Lizzie” Mills, Member, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC; and Rod Taylor, Senior Manager, Government Consulting Group, Maner Costerisan
“The Dog Ate My Notice!” Protecting Yourself Against Challenges to Public Notice Requirements

Public notice requirements are complex and vary across a web of different laws. When does a notice of a public meeting need to be posted? What does it need to include? How detailed do agendas and minutes have to be? What happens if a public hearing that requires notice to property owners happens, but a decision gets tabled after the public hearing is held—does it need to be re-noticed to all the properties again? Just how much of a new ordinance needs to be published, and when? This session will address these and other questions to help you navigate the Open Meetings Act, Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, and the laws governing general law and charter townships to help you avoid having to re-notice meetings or have your policies and ordinances challenged.

Speaker: Matthew Zalewski, Attorney, Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, Amtsbuechler, PC
What Your Township Needs to Know about Franchises

A franchise agreement is a contract between your township and a public utility provider (from electric to cable, gas and oil pipelines, yes, even the METRO Act). Your township gives consent to public utilities so they can install infrastructure in a public right-of-way. Franchise agreements are put in place to allow them to utilize that infrastructure and conduct their business in that space. Learn more about these agreements, including fees, what considerations are negotiable and the process for renewal.

Speaker: Rob Thall, MTA Legal Counsel, Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC
Zoning for Your Community Identity

Townships across the state are rediscovering the power of local zoning to shape their destinies. With development pressure coming from many corners—the housing crisis, renewable energy buildout, state and national efforts to rebuild the industrial base, and more—township leaders are finding their zoning ordinances and administration capacity stretched in new and challenging ways. This session will discuss how to develop your community identity and vision, and how to translate that vision to zoning language. We’ll also dive into how to create local zoning, even if you’ve never had it before.

Speakers: Christopher Khorey, AICP, Vice President, Kyle Mucha, AICP, Senior Planner, and Hunter Whitehill, AICP, Senior Planner, McKenna

Wednesday, April 2

Concurrent Sessions – 10:45 a.m. to Noon
ATVs, Golf Carts and E-Bikes, Oh My!

All-terrain vehicles and golf carts are driving on public roads. E-bikes and electric scooters have taken over once quiet bike paths. Ever wonder if it’s legal? Can townships regulate their use? Learn the nuances of regulating small motorized vehicles, limitations on enforcement, the impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act and other issues townships need to know when dealing with these vehicles.

Speaker: Trenton Buhr-Roschewski, Attorney, Mika Meyers PLC
Building Bridges: Confidence as the Catalyst for Collaboration

Confidence isn’t just a personal trait. It’s a powerful tool for uniting diverse perspectives and driving effective collaboration within your township board and community. Building on his Conference keynote address, Juan Bendaña will provide hands-on strategies to harness confidence in yourself, and others, to foster a more cohesive and collaborative environment. Discover how to leverage your confidence to bridge gaps between differing opinions, cultivate trust among your peers, and create a culture where every voice is valued.

Speaker: MTA 2025 Conference Keynoter Juan Bendaña
Byte Back: Protecting Your Township from Cybercrime

Cybersecurity risks continue to pose significant threats to communities statewide. Get an update on the ever-evolving virtual threats targeting municipalities and initiatives to combat them. Learn practical strategies to strengthen your township’s information systems and steps to safeguard your community’s data, assets, and infrastructure from cyberattacks.

Speaker: Tom Peller, Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Rapids Division
Communication is Key

Townships face unique challenges in building meaningful connections with diverse communities. Join us as we explore actionable strategies for crafting and executing effective communication and engagement plans. Gain tools for navigating complex projects, building trust and fostering stronger community relations. Learn how to tailor your approach to enhance public perception, drive civic participation and ensure your initiatives make a lasting impact.

Speaker: Torri Mathes, Founder and CEO, Mathes Media
FOIA: What’s All the Fuss?

You won’t want to miss this insightful review of key aspects of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), from deadlines for processing requests to the calculation of fees and so much more! Learn common mistakes boards make, get tips on how to avoid them and walk away with answers to your FOIA questions.

Speaker: Catherine Mullhaupt, MTA Staff Attorney
Follow the Yellow Brick Road: Farm Markets, Roadside Stands and the Right to Farm Act, Oh My!

The Right to Farm Act provides protection for old and expanding commercial farms. While traditional agriculture poses less complications for modern zoning and planning, the same is not true of farm markets and roadside stands, which have surged post pandemic with at-home agricultural production. Come learn about regulation of farm markets, roadside stands, value added agriculture and best practices of promoting local agriculture and working through the Right to Farm Act.

Speakers: Christopher Patterson, Member, and Matthew Kuschel, Attorney, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC
Fundamentals of Municipal Financing

How do townships borrow money under Michigan’s public finance laws? From financing fire trucks to municipal buildings to water and sewer systems, get invaluable information on the laws and procedures governing municipal borrowing. We will answer the age-old question, “Why can’t the township just get a loan from the bank?”

Speaker: Steve Mann, Attorney, Miller Canfield
Good Help is Hard to Find: Developing and Retaining Your Township Team

Explore the unique challenges facing townships when it comes to talent management, including strategies for retaining and developing the next generation of leaders. We’ll even review best practices for outsourcing when necessary.

Speakers: Brian Camiller, Partner, Government Vertical Leader, and Carolyn Lorenz, Senior Manager, Plante Moran
Roles, Reports and Reconciliation: Who’s Doing What?

Understanding who does what, and how the clerk and treasurer interact, is crucial for maintaining financial transparency, accuracy and accountability. Reconciliation between your township’s dynamic duo isn’t just a procedural step, it’s a critical internal control that protects public funds and ensures compliance with laws and best practices. When the entire township team understands these roles, they can help reduce errors, support accurate reporting and identify potential issues early. Join us as we clarify key responsibilities and provide practical insights for fostering collaboration and trust.

Speakers: Judy Bigney, Liaison, and Shelly Schneider, Associate, MTA Member Information Services Department
Strategies for Equitable Water and Sewer Solutions

Join the discussion on the unique challenges facing townships in managing water and sewer utilities. These essential utilities operate without direct government regulation, leaving the decision-making to elected officials who often have limited knowledge or experience in water and sewer utility operation and finance. Aging infrastructure necessitates costly replacements, leading to rate increases that can sometimes unfairly burden customers. Explore strategies and financing options, and learn how your township can navigate these complex issues to secure fair and sustainable water and sewer solutions for your community’s future.

Speakers: Eric Conn and Jacob Witte, Attorneys, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, and Andrew Burnham, Vice President, Management and Technology Sector Leader, Stantec
“You’re Outta Here!” Regulating Speech in Meetings, Public Places and Online

When public comment at meetings, on online sites or in public places gets heated, uncomfortable or unsuitable for the ears of children, it’s not an uncommon reaction to want to throw the speaker out of the conversation. But that’s often the wrong choice … unless it’s not. This session will survey the constantly evolving landscape of law related to public participation in meetings, online sites and traditional public forums to help you review your ordinances, meeting policies and practices to best position your township to anticipate and react to potential due process and First Amendment-related pressures.

Speakers: Andrew Brege and Michael Berger, Attorneys, Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, Amtsbuechler, PC
Concurrent Sessions – 1 to 2:15 p.m.
Better Together: Neighbors Who Collaborate, Celebrate

Discover innovative ways townships can achieve more by working together. Explore intergovernmental partnerships that enhance services and expand opportunities while stretching limited budgets. From shared emergency services and utilities to regional planning efforts, participants will learn practical approaches to collaboration that can improve efficiency and meet community needs. We’ll review common barriers to cooperation and provide strategies for overcoming them, and share how collaboration can transform your township’s approach to service delivery, paving the way for mutually beneficial relationships and stronger communities.

Speakers: William Fahey, Member, and Kyle O’Meara, Attorney, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC
Big Picture Capital Improvement Plan Funding

Resources are available that enable your township to fund long-term holistic plans for your entire community. We’ll dig into long-term capital improvement plans and help you turn those forecasts into a realistic funding plan! Discussion includes funding options such as cash reserves, grants and bond financing of projects. Specific project finance examples include water and sewer projects, and lead service line replacements. We’ll also cover the State Revolving Fund, USDA Rural Development and open market bond issuance processes.

Speaker: Andy Campbell, CPA, Bendzinski & Co., Municipal Finance Advisors
Do You Ever Worry About Being Sued?

Township officials are often worried about getting sued when making decisions and taking actions while in office. For those who aren’t regularly involved with court cases, the judicial process can be intimidating, mysterious and full of seemingly strange procedures. So, what’s actually going to happen if you do get sued, and why can’t your lawyers just go to the judge and get a decision the day after the case is filed, like they do on TV? Learn from a full-time litigator what you need to know as a township official.

Speaker: Heather Sumner, Attorney, Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, Amtsbuechler, PC
Elections Update

Hear directly from the Secretary of State’s office and state Bureau of Elections on the hot issues in Michigan elections. We’ll share the lessons learned from 2024 general elections, including early voting, absentee voting and more.

Speaker: Kristi Dougan, Manager, Training and Elections Assistance, Michigan Bureau of Elections, Michigan Department of State
From Parks to Places: Transforming Community Spaces

Discover the latest trends and transformative ideas shaping the future of parks and recreation. Learn fresh, innovative strategies that maximize the impact of green spaces in your community. From revitalizing existing parks to creating entirely new outdoor experiences, we’ll explore how to adapt to evolving needs, engage families and foster community spirit through inclusive, accessible programs and facilities.

Speaker: Anthony Iracki, Professional Development Manager, PlayCore
Introduction to Township Ordinances

Ordinances are local laws enacted by your township board and enforced by the township. They can be used to protect your residents and retain the character of your community. Properly written ordinances boost your credibility, limit public complaints and assist with enforcement efforts. Get an overview of statutory authority for both zoning and non-zoning ordinances and tips for tailoring your ordinances to fit your community’s needs.

Speaker: Seth Koches, MTA Legal Counsel, Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC
Nip It in the Bud: The Importance of Strong Policies and Handbooks

In the day-to-day hustle of running a township, it’s easy to overlook the importance of maintaining strong employee policies and handbooks. But this blind spot can open your township up to significant employee claims and disputes down the road. Learn the distinction between employee policies and handbooks, what should (and should not!) be included, and how often your township’s policies and handbooks should be updated to reduce legal risks and support a positive workplace culture.

Speaker: Courtney Agrusa, Attorney, Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC
Public Use of Township Property and Facilities

Because a township is “the government,” the relationship status for a township and its property is complicated. Who “owns” township property? Does “publicly owned” mean “open to the public?” Who decides how a township’s property will or will not be used or accessed? Every township board member needs to be aware of the legal issues regarding township real estate, facilities and equipment. Get a better understanding of the board’s role and responsibilities, including when to involve the township’s attorney or other consultants.

Speaker: Catherine Mullhaupt, MTA Staff Attorney
Special Assessments: From Sidewalks to Safety

Special assessments are a popular tool for funding infrastructure improvements such as water and sewer systems, streets and sidewalks. They can even be used to raise money for police and fire equipment, operations (payroll and benefits!), and buildings. Learn the differences between special assessment statutes and the procedures required to establish special assessment districts and confirm assessment rolls for public infrastructure projects or police and fire purposes. The legality and controversy of township-wide special assessment districts will also be discussed.

Speaker: Steve Mann, Attorney, Miller Canfield
What Changes Are Proposed for the MTA Policy Platform

With input from fellow township members across the state, learn about the proposed 2025 Policy Platform from a panel of MTA Board members who serve on the MTA Legislative Policy Platform Committee. Committee chairs will discuss the proposed changes and receive feedback from members attending. This session will allow you to learn the rationale behind the proposed changes and get questions addressed prior to the Annual Meeting, where the proposed policy platform will be formally introduced.

Speakers: Members of the MTA Board of Directors and MTA Government Relations Staff
Concurrent Sessions – 2:45 to 4 p.m.
Becoming a Leader Others Want to Follow

Is there a life hack for being more confident, capable and collaborative? How can you earn greater respect from those you serve and remain calm, flexible and focused in the face of controversy? We’ll dissect the strongest predictors of leadership performance and must-have leadership skills, including the one that plays a larger role than your IQ, degrees or technical skills. Walk away with insights into uniting others and inspiring collaboration around your township’s goals.

Speaker: Marilynn Semonick, Chief Exploration Officer, The Success Studio
Budget Development and Forecasting

Forecasting revenues is a fundamental part of budgeting and financial planning for your township’s future, allowing you to anticipate resource availability and plan accordingly. Review budgetary concepts and legal requirements, explore best practices for preparing, adopting and monitoring your township’s budget, and walk away with techniques for short- and long-term forecasting.

Speakers: Brian Camiller, Partner, Government Vertical Leader, and Carolyn Lorenz, Senior Manager, Plante Moran
Choosing the Right Township Manager: A Recruitment Roadmap

Gain insights into the key stages of recruitment of your next township manager. We’ll review common pitfalls and offer strategies for negotiating, managing expectations and ensuring the right fit for your township team. Learn tips for working with a recruiter to ensure a successful, seamless selection of a manager who fits your community’s needs.

Speaker: Stacy Belisle, Attorney, McGraw Morris, PC
Earned Sick Time: Experiences and Tips from the First Month

After a lengthy legal battle, the Earned Sick Time Act will go into effect Feb. 21, 2025. This new law will be a sea change for Michigan townships, many of which will be required to provide paid sick time for the first time. The act grants broad entitlements of paid sick time for all township employees, regardless of the size of the township or the hours of the employee. You won’t want to miss this review of common misunderstandings about sick time requirements, and real world experiences from the first month of mandatory paid sick time.

Speakers: Helen “Lizzie” Mills, Member, and Tom Forgione, Attorney, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC
Lawful Expenditures: Spending Public Money

Townships need statutory authority to spend public money. Why all the restrictions? Because it’s “other people’s money.” Wondering whether your township can spend money on an activity? Then this session is for you! We’ll review the general guidelines and offer specific examples of lawful and unlawful expenditures.

Speaker: Shelly Schneider, MTA Member Information Services Associate

Think your township is immune to legal slip-ups? Think again! Join us for a wild ride through the legal pitfalls that can turn good intentions into costly mistakes. We’ll break down the blind spots that lead to municipal oopsie-daisies that can trip up even the most seasoned officials. Save your township time (and money!) by learning how to avoid these missteps, blind spots and traps.

Speaker: Seth Koches, MTA Legal Counsel, Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC
Let’s Get This Party Started (Or Not): The Long-Term Headache of Short-Term Rentals

Whether or not your township hosts large numbers of short-term rentals (STRs) or even regulates them at all, chances are that at least one is operating in your neighborhoods and it is just one wild party away from becoming your next policy crisis. Are STRs residential or commercial uses? Can you prohibit them, cap them, or even reduce the number that you already have? What if you do not address them at all? This session will help you navigate these and other STR issues, with updates on rapidly developing legal opinions and state legislative discussions.

Speaker: Matthew Zalewski, Attorney, Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, Amtsbuechler, PC
Managing FOIA Requests for Election Records

Across the state, townships have received multiple Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests for election records, both for recent and past elections. Join us as we dive into the waves of FOIA requests for election records in 2022 and 2024. We’ll share recommended responses, offer an analysis of retention periods for election materials, and provide an overview of purported notices of preservation sent in 2022 and 2023. Walk away with a strategy for managing election-related FOIA requests, even during the busy election season.

Speaker: Kathryn Stegink, Attorney, Mika Meyers PLC
Social Media Pitfalls

Social media can be a powerful tool to engage constituents, disseminate information and collect feedback. But when does our personal social media transform into public? What can officials do to keep their personal pages personal? When (and what) can your township restrict without stepping on your team’s free speech rights? The right choices lead to community engagement, but the wrong choices lead to expensive litigation. Explore the dos and don’ts for navigating the complicated, ever-evolving social media landscape.

Speakers: Keith Brown and Mackenzie Almassian, Attorneys, Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PCd
Swimming in Regulations: A Municipal Dive into Public Swimming Pool and Campground Programs

Navigating the rules and regulations surrounding campgrounds and public swimming pools can be complex, but this session will help you stay afloat. Review state construction permit and operating license processes, get practical insights on inspections, and learn tips on identifying and responding to social media trends promoting unlicensed or illegal campgrounds—and what to do if they set up camp in your community.

Speakers: Karen Beauchamp, PE, Environmental Engineer Specialist, and Jeremy Hoeh, PE, Environmental Health Programs Unit Supervisor, Campground and Public Swimming Pool Programs, Drinking Water and Environmental Health Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy