2025 Conference Highlights
Opening Session | Tuesday, April 1
The MTA Annual Conference is truly an event like no other—and it all kicks off with the inspirational Opening Session. Join us as we unite to welcome and honor the dedicated public servants—including newly elected officials—who work each and every day for their community. This morning is a true celebration of the Unique and United nature and power of township government. Following the always-moving presentation of colors and Township Parade of Flags, help us honor the Township Governance Academy graduating class of 2025. Attendees will also hear from MTA leadership, including 2024 President Connie Cargill and Executive Director Neil Sheridan, on the incredible impact that can result when Michigan’s Unique and United townships work together for better communities and a better Michigan.
Sponsored in part by 
Coffee service sponsored by 
MTA Expo | Tuesday April 1 & Wednesday, April 2
Michigan’s largest municipal exposition offers a one-stop shop of township vendors and suppliers that can help you realize opportunities to provide even better programs, systems and services for your community. No where else will you find such a wide assortment of companies serving townships—from attorneys to engineering firms, software companies to environmental services—all there to help you discover ways to run your township more efficiently. Don’t miss the Evening at the Expo on Tuesday after classes, where you can enjoy extra time connecting with exhibitors, who will have complimentary drink tickets to give to attendees during this casual networking reception.
See who is exhibiting at the MTA Expo (Login required)
Stop by the MTA bookstore, where you’ll find nearly two dozen publications geared exclusively to township government and save 15% off all MTA books—including updated editions of our bestsellers and our latest offering on zoning ordinances. Be sure to visit the Friends of MTA Booth, and learn how your contributions can help MTA support legislators who value township government.
Portrait Studio sponsored by 
General Session | Wednesday, April 2
In a world where change is happening faster than ever before, confidence becomes the bedrock upon which effective leadership is built. Our 2025 Conference Keynoter Juan Bendaña will help attendees explore the pivotal role confidence plays in driving both individual and collective success within local government. Drawing on the Conference theme Unique and United, Bendaña will delve into how embracing your unique strengths while fostering unity among board members can lead to resilient, vibrant communities. Explore practical strategies that improve and inspire confidence, while staying grounded in the real-world challenges that township leaders face. Whether you’re a seasoned official or new to the role, our General Session will equip you with tools to lead with greater energy, courage and a renewed sense of purpose. Discover how, by uniting your unique strengths with those of your fellow township team members, you can drive united, meaningful change in your community.
Sponsored in part by 
Coffee service sponsored by 
Click here for a special message from Juan. You can read more about what he has in store for you in the March issue of your Township Focus Magazine.
MTA Banquet | Wednesday, April 2
Gather together for an evening of camaraderie and entertainment at MTA’s Annual Banquet, featuring a delicious dinner—and the company of more than 1,000 dedicated local officials and VIPs. After we honor important individuals who have made significant contributions to the Association and townships, sit back, relax and laugh. From side-splitting special character appearances to audience-inclusive games, Facilitator of Fun Danny Adams will engage attendees and guests in a unique way that will leave you filled with laughter.
NOTE: The MTA Banquet is included with full-Conference and guest registrations only. Additional tickets may be purchased using the registration form on page 10. Pre-select your seat on-site at the Ticket Xchange, sponsored by Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. Those with special dietary needs should contact Kristin at (517) 321-6467, ext. 230 or kristin@michigantownships.org at least two weeks before Conference.
Banquet entertainment 
Ticket Xchange sponsored by 
MTA Annual Meeting | Thursday, April 3
Take part in the final, but critically important, event of the Conference—our Annual Meeting. The business meeting for the Association, this morning event is your opportunity to help guide TMA’s future direction, as delegates cast their vote on proposed policies to be included in MTA’s 2025 Policy Platform (only elected officials from member townships may vote). In addition, attendees participate in the installation of the Association’s new president, officers and newly elected district directors. During the meeting, 2024 MTA President Connie Cargill will also be recognized for her dedicated service to the Association.
Evening events include:
“3-D” Welcoming Reception | Monday, March 31
Enjoy Desserts, Drinks & Dancing at the Grand Woods Lounge.
Sponsored by 
Par Plan Fun Night Birthday Bash at The B.O.B. | Tuesday, April 1
Help wish the Michigan Township Participating Plan a happy 40th birthday and enjoy a memorable evening of party games and fun, snacks, and maybe even a little birthday cake.
Sponsored by
Afterglow Reception | Wednesday, April 2
Keep the night going with music, drinks and dancing following the MTA Banquet.
Sponsored by
Caucus elections to be held at Conference to elect members to MTA Board
Twenty-one MTA Districts will hold caucus elections on April 2 during the Conference to elect members to the MTA Board of Directors. The MTA Board term of office begins at the MTA Annual Meeting on April 3 and concludes following the Annual Meeting in 2029.
In accordance with MTA bylaws and based on the slate of 2025 candidates being put forth as MTA officers, the following districts will NOT convene a caucus: 8, 13, 16 and 22. Prior announcement of candidacy is not required.
Find your MTA district on https://michigantownships.org; click on “About,” then “Leadership.”