Michigan Townships Association

Upcoming Training

June classes feature two classes in one day

Earned Sick Time Act and Your Township

9 to 11:30 a.m.
Check-in at 8:30 a.m. with coffee & pastries

Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) underwent major changes before it was signed into law this year—changes that directly impact your township’s policies and responsibilities as a public employer. Townships are employers, and even the smallest township likely has at least some employees subject to ESTA compliance.

This session is designed to help your township navigate the new requirements with confidence and provide clarity on your responsibilities. We’ll help you understand who is a township “employee” subject to ESTA compliance and clear the confusion on which employment laws apply to which people “at the hall.”

Dates & Locations
June 17: Northern Center at NMU, Marquette* 
June 18: Otsego Resort Event Center, Gaylord*
June 24: Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, Mt. Pleasant

Click here to register now OR download the brochure here.

*Note: Online registration is now closed for June 17 & 18 locations. Contact MTA for assistance.

Register for the afternoon session, “Cemetery Challenges & Solutions” (below) and pay only $25 for the ESTA session! Discount applies when you register for both classes.



Cemetery Challenges & Solutions

12:50 to 5 p.m.
Check-in & lunch begin at Noon

Whether you’re new to cemetery oversight or looking to update your knowledge, this course offers practical insights and guidance into cemetery management fundamentals and modern operational strategies that respect tradition while meeting today’s community expectations. Let by MTA Consultant Cindy Dodge, a seasoned expert in township cemetery issues, this session will cover:

    • Legal requirements and how to create or revise your cemetery ordinance

    • Fee structures, budgeting, and addressing special management concerns

    • The roles of cemetery staff and township officials, including sextons, clerks, and advisory committees

    • Trends like green or natural burials and how they may affect your cemetery operations

Dates & Locations
June 17: Northern Center at NMU, Marquette* 
June 18: Otsego Resort Event Center, Gaylord*
June 24: Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, Mt. Pleasant

Click here to register now OR download the brochure here.

 *Note: Online registration is now closed for June 17 & 18 locations. Contact MTA for assistance.

Register for this class plus “Earned Sick Time Act & Your Township” (above) being held in the morning, and get $25 off your total! Discount applies when you register for both classes.

Sponsor thank you to TriMedia

MTA’s Now You Know webinar series provides training in bite-size pieces!

Next up: Join us at Noon on July 16 for
Mid-year Legislative Update

Join us for this insightful update where we’ll unpack the latest twists and turns from the Capitol—including the state budget and road funding. MTA’s Government Relations team will break down the 2025 session to date and share key issues at the forefront, measures on the horizon and their impact on your role as a township official—all in just one hour. You can join us live July 16 at noon, watch a recorded version later, or both! It’s a great way to stay ahead of the legislative tide.

Click here to register online now

Looking for more Now You Know topics coming up? Click here for the full 2025 schedule!

Wondering what’s in your MTA Online subscription?

MTA Online logo subscriptions

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.

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Red Book Ready

Each chapter within the “little red book” corresponds with a class (or two!) that takes you deeper into the topics covered within that chapter. Given that classes vary widely in time and depth-from 75 minutes to several hours-you may need to take more than one to get the job done. Some classes may cover an […]

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Township Governance Academy

The Township Governance Academy (TGA) is a voluntary credentialing program intended to give township board members and other local leaders the 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.

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MTA Online Learning Center

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 safety of your home office or township hall.