As Real As It Gets

Few people are fully aware of the responsibilities of being a township official when they decide to run for office.

How hard can it be—it’s only one meeting a month, right? Wrong.

Whatever township office you are running for, the real work begins after the campaign is finished and you are elected. Anyone can be passionate about an issue. That’s not enough. As a township official, you’ll be expected to understand the responsibilities of the various offices in township government.

Township government is led by a township board consisting of either five or seven members—a supervisor, clerk, treasurer, and two or four trustees.

Michigan townships, regardless of size, provide services tailored to meet the needs of their residents. Township officials represent the level of government closest and most responsive to the wishes of the people—this is As Real As It Gets.

The following are Core Competencies for township officials, as identified by the Michigan Townships Association:

FAQs About Running for Township Office

Demonstrate knowledge about township law (general law or charter) government responsibilities, functions and powers

Identify the major functions of each branch of government—local, state and federal—along with their relationship to one another

Communicate effectively and listen attentively

Utilize consensus-building techniques and motivate others to achieve desired outcomes

Work effectively to manage adversity and hostility

Possess knowledge of what constitutes ethical behavior

Possess vision, especially relative to the township’s needs or potential, and utilize public relations skills to positively represent the township

Understand the roles and responsibilities of other elected and appointed offices

Demonstrate knowledge of the various committees, boards and commissions serving the township, including their roles and responsibilities

Understand how township policies and procedures are set

Be aware of what constitutes lawful township expenditures

Utilize strategic planning to attain objectives

Demonstrate knowledge of how ordinances are lawfully adopted and legally enforced

Supervisor
Clerk
Treasurer
Trustee