Current Educational Workshops

Contracts 101

Every township has to work with contracts, and the entire board needs the knowledge to be an effective negotiator. Whether it's a contract for a relatively small service, or an intergovernmental agreement with neighboring communities, you need to know what to consider, what to include, and how to renegotiate or end contracts.

This insightful afternoon workshop provides a broad, yet comprehensive overview of the challenges unique to townships when negotiating contracts and agreements. Examine the finer points of the procurement process and learn best practices required for working with government contractors-from soliciting bids to complying with regulatory requirements.

Register online now     OR     Download the registration brochure

Exploring ZBA Basics

Whether you have been a member of your township's zoning board of appeals (ZBA) for many years, or were recently appointed, this evening workshop will assist you in carrying out your responsibilities. Elected officials should also attend this workshop to learn more about the role of the ZBA and the relationship that the board has with the ZBA.

Attendees will review the legal influences on ZBA decisions; voting and the use of findings of fact to document decisions; and revocations, rehearings and appeals. The workshop will also cover ZBA review standards, examining administrative review and interpretations, variances, and temporary uses.  

Register online now     OR     Download the registration brochure 

Annual West Michigan Conference returns

MTA is partnering with Muskegon Community College to bring you the 26^th Annual West Michigan Township Officials Conference. Join us Saturday, March 27 in Room 1200 of the Stevenson Center on the campus of Muskegon Community College. The morning program will feature a Legislative Update led by MTA Legislative Liaison David Bertram with round table discussions immediately following. After lunch MTA Executive Director Larry Merrill will discuss Current Issues Affecting Townships.

Download a registration brochure or find hotel accomodations nearby

Protecting Your Township's Boundaries

These economic times make it more important than ever to protect your township boundaries and tax base. Whether your township is involved in a city annexation, village to city incorporation, city detachment, village dissolution or Act 425 agreement, each will have significant and long-lasting consequences on your revenues and your residents. This half-day workshop will help you identify your township's boundary risks, understand your options, and determine the best course for your community.

Download the registration brochure   OR     Register online now

Township Governance Academy brings learning to a new level

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. The Academy offers new ideas, shares “best practices” in township government and provides a hands-on approach to help you deal more effectively with everyday issues that your board faces. Upcoming courses include:

• How Boards Make Decisions
• Making Meetings Work More Effectively
• Land Use: Defining Your Township's Future

MTA On The Road

MTA travels through the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula each May for our spring regional (district) meeting tour. These one-day events offer a great opportunity to connect with fellow township officials and hear the latest news affecting your township. Get valuable education on timely topics, discuss issues with MTA staff and visit with vendors all at one convenient location close to home! Learn more ...

Upcoming educational events

MTA travels throughout the state offering topics ranging from the basic “nuts and bolts” duties of township officials to advanced policy issues that our members face. Whether you’re looking for an evening program or a two-day educational event, we've got a workshop for you. For a list of upcoming events, click here.