Michigan Townships Association

Upcoming Training

MTA’s Now You Know lunchtime webinar series continues March 18 at noon:

Squeaky Wheel Maintenance: Using Policies to Turn Complaints into Constructive Input

We all know “the squeaky wheel gets the grease”—but should it? Explore how clear policies, consistent procedures, mission statements and a shared understanding of who does what can serve as your first line of defense. You can join us live, watch a recorded version later, or both!

Click here for details

The MTA Annual Conference & Expo is back!

Join us as we embark on the Pathway to the Future at MTA’s 2026 Conference & Expo, coming to the Grand Traverse Resort April 20-23.

With more than 50 educational sessions, an exhibit hall filled with 100+ municipal vendors, and plenty of opportunities to build connections with fellow officials, this event offers knowledge and tools to serve your community with confidence and competence. Whether you’re newly elected or a seasoned official, you’ll walk away empowered to lead with purpose.

Remember, you must first register for Conference in order to book hotel rooms in our discounted room blocks when reservations open on Jan. 27!

Download the full brochure or learn more on our Conference website!

Ready to sign up? Register online now!

Take your knowledge to the next level with in-depth pre-conference courses:

Coming to three locations in May: 

Planning & Zoning Primer

Get the fundamentals at this evening class!

MTA is teaming up with its legal counsel from Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC to bring you a Planning & Zoning Primer, an evening class—thoughtfully designed as intermediate-level training with a beginner-friendly foundation. Whether you’re new to the process or looking for a refresher, this class provides a clear, practical roadmap for anyone involved in your township’s planning and zoning process. 

You won’t want to miss this deep dive into the “step by step” of both a special land use permit at the planning commission and a variance request at the zoning board of appeals (ZBA). 

Held from 4-8 PM; includes dinner.

May 6 – Van Buren ISD
May 13 – Frankenmuth, Bavarian Inn Lodge
May 18 – Harbor Springs, The Highlands

For more details or to download a registration form, click here. OR register online now!

Have you heard about MTA Online?

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.

Take your leadership to the next level with MTA's exclusive credentialing programs:

Red Book Ready

This free, self-paced learning journey takes you through MTA’s “little red book” (Authorities & Responsibilities of Michigan Townships) chapter by chapter. Earn credits by completing courses that take you deeper into the topics covered within each chapter. These courses will help you develop broad awareness of township roles and responsibilities, and ensure you are equipped for any challenge facing your community. Click here to learn more!

Township Governance Academy logo

Township Governance Academy

MTA’s Township Governance Academy (TGA) was created to give township board members and other local leaders the in-depth 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. Click here for more info!