Delta Charter Township, Mich.—Nearly 200 township officials from across the state convened in Lansing on March 4 for the Michigan Townships Association’s (MTA) 2025 Capital Conference to gather insights and information on key township issues at the forefront in Lansing, including the critical need for preservation of local control, and adequate funding and investments in Michigan’s communities, and local roads and infrastructure.
“Our 1,240 townships are each unique, yet all are united in their service to more than half of Michigan’s residents,” said MTA Executive Director Neil Sheridan. “MTA’s Capital Conference is a powerful day, allowing local officials to gather together in their commitment to serving their communities and Michigan, and to share with lawmakers local priorities, the impact of potential legislation, and the immense value of townships in ensuring a successful, vibrant state.”
The Association also recognized Sen. John Cherry (D-Flint) for his support of township government by presenting him with the MTA “Legislator of the Year” award. Sen. Cherry received the award, which honors lawmakers who work diligently on townships’ behalf, in recognition of his successful efforts to restore essential funding—statutory revenue sharing—to all Michigan municipalities, including our 1,240 townships.
In accepting the award, Sen. Cherry shared the necessity for reliable, consistent local revenue sources—and his hopes for continued improvements. “Local governments provide the most essential services that citizens rely on every day, and making sure that you have the resources to deliver those to the people you represent is extremely important to our state,” he said. “I was very happy and proud to be able to partner with many others to advance these improvements to revenue sharing last year, and am hoping to take further steps, with the passage of a revenue sharing trust fund.”
During a networking lunch, legislators and staff met with officials from their districts, who were able to share their local government experiences and perspectives on issues being debated in the Legislature.
The Capital Conference also allowed attendees—who traveled from as far as Dickinson County to attend the annual event—to hear firsthand from experts on critical issues that impact townships and their residents. General sessions explored topics impacting townships in all areas of the state: utility-scale renewable energy facility siting and pending litigation; an overview of the Earned Sick Time Act, including municipal-specific considerations; and the impacts of property tax reform on local government funding. A panel of Capitol press corps members offered insights into the dynamics of the 103rd legislative session. Additional session topics included cybersecurity and changes in election administration. In addition to MTA legal counsel and municipal attorneys, expert presenters included staff from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Michigan Bureau of Elections and the Citizens Research Council of Michigan.
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The Michigan Townships Association advances local democracy by fostering township leadership and public policy essential for a strong and vibrant Michigan.