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  • Now You Know - Legislative Wrap-up: What's in, out and what's to come.
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    MTA’s government relations team shares the impact of the 2024 election results and the latest on legislative action during the Lame Duck session.

    Legislative Wrap-up: What's in, out and what's to come

    As the Legislature wraps up its final days of the 2024 session, MTA’s government relations team shares the impact of the 2024 election results, the latest on Lame Duck legislative action (and surprises!) and what is anticipated in the new session.

     

    There are multiple legislative issues being debated in the final days of the 102nd legislative session that will impact your township including term of office, election changes, preemption of zoning authority, public employees requirements and more! You won’t want to miss this lighting round breakdown which includes an extensive list of items being taken up in the final days in December.

    Learn what MTA is working to achieve—like the creation of a revenue sharing trust fund, what we are working to improve—such as the State Voting Rights Act and statewide sanitary code. You’ll get the latest on any possible changes to the Earned Sick Leave Act and the new minimum wage requirements as well as new road funding proposals and more—all in just one hour!

    **MTA Online "Premium Pass" subscribers: This webcast is already part of your subscription. To access, login then click MY WEBCASTS, then click the Premium Package link to view this webcast, or to access other webcasts included in your package.**

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Mike Batterbee

    MTA Legislative Associate

    MTA

    Mike has multiple years of experience working with the Michigan Legislature and state departments, most recently serving as senior policy advisor for the House Republican Policy Office. He also served seven years as the director of the Office of Government Affairs with the Michigan Department of State. Mike also has association experience having worked with the National Federation of Independent Business and Small Business Association of Michigan.

  • New Officials Training for Supervisors
    Contains 4 Component(s)

    This recorded version of our popular full-day course offers the knowledge and tools that newly elected officials need to start out on the right foot. From advocacy and required functions to who's in charge and tips for handling public money, we'll cover essential topics for all officials, plus get training on specific duties of your elected position.

    Welcome to Township Government!

    Upon taking the oath of office as a township official, you are assuming multiple responsibilities, requiring a unique combination of leadership, decision-making and administration, as well as an understanding of statutory requirements. How do you bring fresh perspectives to the board, while valuing the work of veteran board members? What are the crucial functions you need to perform right now for your specific office?

    This multi-segment course can help you start out on the right foot! Designed to build on your abilities and understanding of township government, this program enables you to successfully represent and serve your residents while shaping your community’s future. We’ll review the “hows and whys” of township government, and explore the duties and responsibilities of a township board—and your role.

    General topics discussed include:

    • The Importance of Advocacy: Why it’s essential, what tools you can use and how you can make a difference. 
    • What Townships Do—and Don’t Do: Every township’s required government functions, plus the optional “do’s” and the “don’ts.” 
    • Who’s in Charge (and What Did I Get Myself Into)?: How township boards work. 
    • Public vs. Private: You’re the government, using public money—what are the rules? What is your “fiduciary” responsibility? 
    • Township Revenues: How does a township pay for government programs and services?

    Plus, the second half of the course covers topics specific to township supervisors, such as: 

    • Meeting management 
    • Ordinances
    • Lawful expenditures
    • Budgeting
    • Township administration
    • Overseeing assessing 
    • Risk management

    BONUS: Those registered by January 22, 2025, are invited to join a live Q&A with MTA staff experts to get your questions answered in real-time on Jan. 28 at 10 a.m. Simply watch the on-demand recordings, then watch for the email one week prior to the Q&A date with a login link/instructions.

    Recorded in December 2024.

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    MTA Member Information Liaison Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She has been involved with the township since 2003 as assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Via phone, fax and e-mail, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She is also the Association liaison for MTA county chapters, develops MIS Department resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

    Michael Selden

    Director of Member Information Services

    MTA

    Michael Selden is MTA's director of Member Information Services. As director, he supervises the development and delivery of Association member information programs and services.

    Before joining MTA in November 2015, Selden served as the city manager of Wayland, Mich., for three years. In that role, he prepared and managed the city budget, supervised 22 employees, oversaw multiple city departments and served as liaison to numerous boards and commissions. Selden also served as the city manager of Bangor, Mich., from 2007-2012. He holds a master’s in public administration from the University of Michigan—Flint, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

  • New Officials Training for Trustees
    Contains 4 Component(s)

    This recorded version of our popular full-day course offers the knowledge and tools that newly elected officials need to start out on the right foot. From advocacy and required functions to who's in charge and tips for handling public money, we'll cover essential topics for all officials, plus get training on specific duties of your elected position.

    Welcome to Township Government!

    Upon taking the oath of office as a township official, you are assuming multiple responsibilities, requiring a unique combination of leadership, decision-making and administration, as well as an understanding of statutory requirements. How do you bring fresh perspectives to the board, while valuing the work of veteran board members? What are the crucial functions you need to perform right now for your specific office?

    This multi-segment course can help you start out on the right foot! Designed to build on your abilities and understanding of township government, this program enables you to successfully represent and serve your residents while shaping your community’s future. We’ll review the “hows and whys” of township government, and explore the duties and responsibilities of a township board—and your role.

    General topics discussed include:

    • The Importance of Advocacy: Why it’s essential, what tools you can use and how you can make a difference. 
    • What Townships Do—and Don’t Do: Every township’s required government functions, plus the optional “do’s” and the “don’ts.” 
    • Who’s in Charge (and What Did I Get Myself Into)?: How township boards work. 
    • Public vs. Private: You’re the government, using public money—what are the rules? What is your “fiduciary” responsibility? 
    • Township Revenues: How does a township pay for government programs and services?

    Plus, the second half of the course covers topics specific to township trustees, such as: 

    • Understanding your role (hint: all board members are “trustees” at the head table)
    • Budgeting
    • Decision-making
    • Fiduciary responsibility (looking out for the township’s best interests)

    BONUS: Those registered by January 23, 2025, are invited to join a live Q&A with MTA staff experts to get your questions answered in real-time on Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. Simply watch the on-demand recordings, then watch for the email one week prior to the Q&A date with a login link/instructions.

    Recorded in December 2024.

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    MTA Member Information Liaison Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She has been involved with the township since 2003 as assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Via phone, fax and e-mail, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She is also the Association liaison for MTA county chapters, develops MIS Department resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • New Officials Training for Treasurers
    Contains 4 Component(s)

    This recorded version of our popular full-day course offers the knowledge and tools that newly elected officials need to start out on the right foot. From advocacy and required functions to who's in charge and tips for handling public money, we'll cover essential topics for all officials, plus get training on specific duties of your elected position.

    Welcome to Township Government!

    Upon taking the oath of office as a township official, you are assuming multiple responsibilities, requiring a unique combination of leadership, decision-making and administration, as well as an understanding of statutory requirements. How do you bring fresh perspectives to the board, while valuing the work of veteran board members? What are the crucial functions you need to perform right now for your specific office?

    This multi-segment course can help you start out on the right foot! Designed to build on your abilities and understanding of township government, this program enables you to successfully represent and serve your residents while shaping your community’s future. We’ll review the “hows and whys” of township government, and explore the duties and responsibilities of a township board—and your role.

    General topics discussed include:

    • The Importance of Advocacy: Why it’s essential, what tools you can use and how you can make a difference. 
    • What Townships Do—and Don’t Do: Every township’s required government functions, plus the optional “do’s” and the “don’ts.” 
    • Who’s in Charge (and What Did I Get Myself Into)?: How township boards work. 
    • Public vs. Private: You’re the government, using public money—what are the rules? What is your “fiduciary” responsibility? 
    • Township Revenues: How does a township pay for government programs and services?

    Plus, the second half of the course covers topics specific to township treasurers, such as: 

    • Financial administration
    • Internal controls and reporting 
    • Defining the types of financial institutions and investments townships may use 
    • Receiving/receipting money 
    • Other tax collecting duties

    BONUS: Those registered by January 22, 2025, are invited to join a live Q&A with MTA staff experts to get your questions answered in real-time on Jan. 29 at 10 a.m. Simply watch the on-demand recordings, then look for an email about one week prior to the Q&A date with a login link/instructions.

    Recorded in December 2024.

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    MTA Member Information Liaison Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She has been involved with the township since 2003 as assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Via phone, fax and e-mail, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She is also the Association liaison for MTA county chapters, develops MIS Department resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • New Officials Training for Clerks
    Contains 4 Component(s)

    This recorded version of our popular full-day course offers the knowledge and tools that newly elected officials need to start out on the right foot. From advocacy and required functions to who's in charge and tips for handling public money, we'll cover essential topics for all officials, plus get training on specific duties of your elected position.

    Welcome to Township Government!

    Upon taking the oath of office as a township official, you are assuming multiple responsibilities, requiring a unique combination of leadership, decision-making and administration, as well as an understanding of statutory requirements. How do you bring fresh perspectives to the board, while valuing the work of veteran board members? What are the crucial functions you need to perform right now for your specific office?

    This multi-segment course can help you start out on the right foot! Designed to build on your abilities and understanding of township government, this program enables you to successfully represent and serve your residents while shaping your community’s future. We’ll review the “hows and whys” of township government, and explore the duties and responsibilities of a township board—and your role.

    General topics discussed include:

    • The Importance of Advocacy: Why it’s essential, what tools you can use and how you can make a difference. 
    • What Townships Do—and Don’t Do: Every township’s required government functions, plus the optional “do’s” and the “don’ts.” 
    • Who’s in Charge (and What Did I Get Myself Into)?: How township boards work. 
    • Public vs. Private: You’re the government, using public money—what are the rules? What is your “fiduciary” responsibility? 
    • Township Revenues: How does a township pay for government programs and services?

    Plus, the second half of the course covers topics specific to township clerks, such as: 

    • Managing records 
    • Meeting minutes & notices
    • Financial administration and reporting 
    • Accounts payable
    • Elections administration 
    • Other duties of the clerk

    BONUS: Those registered by January 22, 2025, are invited to join a live Q&A with MTA staff experts to get your questions answered in real-time on Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. Simply watch the on-demand recordings, then look for an email about one week prior to the Q&A date with a login link/instructions.

    Recorded in December 2024.

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    MTA Member Information Liaison Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She has been involved with the township since 2003 as assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Via phone, fax and e-mail, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She is also the Association liaison for MTA county chapters, develops MIS Department resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

    Judy Bigney

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    Judy Bigney joined MTA’s Member Information Services in August of 2023, bringing with her more than two decades of experience as a local official to share with township leaders across the state. Bigney, who served as Algoma Township (Kent Co.) clerk for 22+ years, has joined the Association as a new Member Information Services Liaison. Bigney was first elected clerk in November 2000, and earned her master municipal clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) in August 2007. In addition to her service on the township board, she was also a member of the Kent County MTA Chapter, Kent County Clerks Association, Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks and IIMC. Bigney and her husband of 31 years own and operate one of the few remaining dairy farms in Algoma Township, with more than 100 cows total. Their youngest son hopes to continue with the family farm in the future.

  • Now You Know - Onboarding New Officials
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    The election is over and your township may have new officials in place. What’s next? We’ll share valuable tips and tricks to help your newly elected officials hit the ground running!

    Now You Know - Onboarding New Officials

    The election is over and your township may have new officials in place. What’s next? This timely webinar, led by our Member Information Services team, shares what can be done, what should be done and what must be done when onboarding your newly elected officials, from the oath of office to outlining policies, and bank cards to bonding. We’ll also delve into how new officials can prepare for their new role leading the township, and how to get them "on board" with MTA so they can access all the helpful resources available as an MTA member. Get a one-hour overview of information essential for both current and new officials as we head into the new township term of office.

    **MTA Online "Premium Pass" subscribers: This webcast is already part of your subscription. To access, login then click MY WEBCASTS, then click the Premium Package link to view this webcast, or to access other webcasts included in your package.**

    Michael Selden

    Director of Member Information Services

    MTA

    Michael Selden is MTA's director of Member Information Services. As director, he supervises the development and delivery of Association member information programs and services.

    Before joining MTA in November 2015, Selden served as the city manager of Wayland, Mich., for three years. In that role, he prepared and managed the city budget, supervised 22 employees, oversaw multiple city departments and served as liaison to numerous boards and commissions. Selden also served as the city manager of Bangor, Mich., from 2007-2012. He holds a master’s in public administration from the University of Michigan—Flint, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

    Judy Bigney

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    Judy Bigney joined MTA’s Member Information Services in August of 2023, bringing with her more than two decades of experience as a local official to share with township leaders across the state. Bigney, who served as Algoma Township (Kent Co.) clerk for 22+ years, has joined the Association as a new Member Information Services Liaison. Bigney was first elected clerk in November 2000, and earned her master municipal clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) in August 2007. In addition to her service on the township board, she was also a member of the Kent County MTA Chapter, Kent County Clerks Association, Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks and IIMC. Bigney and her husband of 31 years own and operate one of the few remaining dairy farms in Algoma Township, with more than 100 cows total. Their youngest son hopes to continue with the family farm in the future.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

  • MTA Q&A - Renewable Energy Update (Oct. 2024)
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    This one-hour recorded webinar offers an update on PA 233, including new rules and requirements just released by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). Available for MTA members only.

    MTA Q&A - Renewable Energy Update October 2024

    Get the latest on renewable energy reform and implementation of Public Act 233 of 2023, which takes effect in November, including the new rules and requirements just released by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). MTA legal counsel provides an overview and answers member questions in this free MTA Q&A webinar moderated by MTA Government Relations Director Judy Allen. Recorded October 17, 2024. Available for MTA members only.

    Judy Allen

    Director of Government Relations

    MTA

    As director, Judy oversees MTA’s legislative efforts to advocate on legislation impacting township government. She represents the interests of MTA members before the Legislature and the administration.  

    Judy began working for MTA in 2012 and has previous experience working with state and local governments. Prior to coming to MTA, Judy served as Director of Government and Community Services of Oakland Schools, where she advocated on behalf of 28 districts in Lansing and Washington, D.C. Judy has also served as Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader and was later appointed by then Gov. John Engler to serve as Chairperson of the Michigan State Liquor Control Commission.

    Rob Thall

    Attorney & MTA Legal Counsel

    Bauckham Sparks Thall Seeber & Kaufman P.C.

    After receiving his law degree from Cooley Law School, Robert Thall joined the law firm of Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC, in which he is now partner. With extensive experience in municipal law, Rob serves as general or special counsel to many general townships, charter townships, as well as sewer and water authorities throughout the state. Rob is also lead counsel for MTA and is a frequent author and speaker for MTA and other municipal groups around the state. 

    Catherine P. Kaufman

    Attorney & Partner

    Bauckham, Sparks, Thall, Seeber & Kaufman, PC

    Catherine P. Kaufman is an attorney and partner at Bauckham, Sparks, Thall, Seeber & Kaufman, PC. Her practice includes all facets of municipal representation, with a concentration on land use, zoning and planning matters. She has served as advisor to municipal planning commissions and zoning boards of appeal, as well as to private citizen and environmental groups. A member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, she has also worked as a land use planner and is active in statewide planning organizations. An honors graduate of James Madison College at Michigan State University, she received a Masters in Urban Planning from the University of Michigan and a J.D. from Wayne State University.

  • Now You Know: In the Transition (2024)
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Review the “ins and outs” of how townships handle resignations, appointments, compensation and the oath of office, as well as required meetings and dates.

    Now You Know: 2024 In the Transition

    MTA’s Member Information Services team—Director Michael Selden, Staff Attorney Catherine Mullhaupt and Liaison Judy Bigney—as they share what you need to know about the transition of incoming (and outgoing!) officials between now and the launch of the new township term of office. Review the “ins and outs” of how townships handle resignations, appointments, compensation and the oath of office, as well as required meetings and dates. We’ll explain what “the transition” actually is, what’s happening, how you handle “elects,” when those running unopposed can assume duties … and so much more all in just one hour.

    **MTA Online "Premium Pass" subscribers: This webcast is already part of your subscription. To access, login then click MY WEBCASTS, then click the Premium Package link to view this webcast, or to access other webcasts included in your package.**

    Michael Selden

    Director of Member Information Services

    MTA

    Michael Selden is MTA's director of Member Information Services. As director, he supervises the development and delivery of Association member information programs and services.

    Before joining MTA in November 2015, Selden served as the city manager of Wayland, Mich., for three years. In that role, he prepared and managed the city budget, supervised 22 employees, oversaw multiple city departments and served as liaison to numerous boards and commissions. Selden also served as the city manager of Bangor, Mich., from 2007-2012. He holds a master’s in public administration from the University of Michigan—Flint, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

    Judy Bigney

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    Judy Bigney joined MTA’s Member Information Services in August of 2023, bringing with her more than two decades of experience as a local official to share with township leaders across the state. Bigney, who served as Algoma Township (Kent Co.) clerk for 22+ years, has joined the Association as a new Member Information Services Liaison. Bigney was first elected clerk in November 2000, and earned her master municipal clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) in August 2007. In addition to her service on the township board, she was also a member of the Kent County MTA Chapter, Kent County Clerks Association, Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks and IIMC. Bigney and her husband of 31 years own and operate one of the few remaining dairy farms in Algoma Township, with more than 100 cows total. Their youngest son hopes to continue with the family farm in the future.

    Catherine Mullhaupt

    Staff Attorney, Member Information Services

    MTA

    Catherine provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She writes for the "Hello, MTA...?" and Legal Briefs columns, and other articles in the Michigan Township Focus, develops MIS Department resource materials and webpages, authors MTA publications, and presents workshop and conference sessions, as well as live and recorded online courses.

    She joined MTA in 1991, spending her first nine years in MTA's Education Department writing and editing articles for the Township Focus and MTA publications. She coordinated educational workshops and the annual MTA trade show, and assisted in coordinating the annual MTA educational conference. 

    She was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2006 and is currently the MTA Staff Attorney.

  • Now You Know - Elections: Ready? Set. Go!
    Contains 2 Component(s), Includes Credits

    This webinar offers lessons learned, expert insights and tips for managing election safety challenges.

    Now You Know: Elections: Ready? Set. Go!

     

    Ensuring a safe and secure election process is a top priority for every township clerk . This webinar offers lessons learned, expert insights and tips for managing election safety challenges. We’ll review the canvassing and certification process to ensure your township is prepared for possible recounts or post-election audits. But that’s not all, you’ll get a refresher on preparing officials for their oath of office and the upcoming term. Join us to strengthen your readiness and equip your township for a seamless electoral experience.


    **MTA Online "Premium Pass" subscribers: This webcast is already part of your subscription. To access, login then click MY WEBCASTS, then click the Premium Package link to view this webcast, or to access other webcasts included in your package.**

    Judy Bigney

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    Judy Bigney joined MTA’s Member Information Services in August of 2023, bringing with her more than two decades of experience as a local official to share with township leaders across the state. Bigney, who served as Algoma Township (Kent Co.) clerk for 22+ years, has joined the Association as a new Member Information Services Liaison. Bigney was first elected clerk in November 2000, and earned her master municipal clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) in August 2007. In addition to her service on the township board, she was also a member of the Kent County MTA Chapter, Kent County Clerks Association, Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks and IIMC. Bigney and her husband of 31 years own and operate one of the few remaining dairy farms in Algoma Township, with more than 100 cows total. Their youngest son hopes to continue with the family farm in the future.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Member Information Liaison

    Michigan Townships Association

    MTA Member Information Liaison Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She has been involved with the township since 2003 as assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Via phone, fax and e-mail, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She is also the Association liaison for MTA county chapters, develops MIS Department resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

    Tina Barton

    Senior Elections Expert

    The Elections Group

    Award winning, innovative, former City Clerk, Senior Program Advisor, now Senior Election Expert committed to free, fair, and accessible elections. Strong advocate for providing best practices, ample resources, and proper funding to EO’s across the country.

  • Now You Know - Prudent Policies
    Contains 2 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Clearly defined township policies ensure incoming officials understand how (and why!) things work the way they do. In this one-hour webinar, MTA’s Member Information Services Director Mike Selden offers insights into township policies from what’s most important to the true value in providing them for incoming officials, whenever the transition may be.

    Now You Know: Prudent Policies

    Were you handed a nice set of township policies when you began your career as a township official? Is your township prepared to provide them to incoming officials? 

    Most people serve their township because they want to give back to their community. One of the best ways to do that is to leave the township better than you found it by setting up future leaders for success. Clearly defined township policies ensure incoming officials understand how (and why!) things work the way they do. What better way to leave a legacy in your township than establishing effective policies and procedures.

    In this one-hour webinar, MTA’s Member Information Services Director Mike Selden offers insights into township policies from what’s most important to the true value in providing them for incoming officials, whenever the transition may be.


    **MTA Online "Premium Pass" subscribers: This webcast is already part of your subscription. To access, login then click MY WEBCASTS, then click the Premium Package link to view this webcast, or to access other webcasts included in your package.**

    Michael Selden

    Director of Member Information Services

    MTA

    Michael Selden is MTA's director of Member Information Services. As director, he supervises the development and delivery of Association member information programs and services.

    Before joining MTA in November 2015, Selden served as the city manager of Wayland, Mich., for three years. In that role, he prepared and managed the city budget, supervised 22 employees, oversaw multiple city departments and served as liaison to numerous boards and commissions. Selden also served as the city manager of Bangor, Mich., from 2007-2012. He holds a master’s in public administration from the University of Michigan—Flint, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

    MTA has the resources you need to succeed

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    Ready for the next step on your learning journey? MTA offers numerous books on a wide variety of topics, including guides for each elected office, civil infractions, planning and zoning, special assessments, fire departments, budgeting and authorities of Michigan township officials. Let MTA resources help you effectively and efficiently fulfill your duties—you can trust MTA publications to keep you up-to-date and on top of the information you need to best serve your township.

    Visit the MTA Bookstore online now or download a publication order form here!

    Recommended Reading 

    Authorities & Responsibilities of Michigan Townships

    Known as MTA's "little red book," this primer for township board members and officials includes terms of office, vacancy, recall, meeting notices, minutes, elections, ordinance publication, investments and tax collections, in addition to the statutory duties of each elected official and township boards and commissions.  

    Introduction to Township Board Meetings

    All township board members are "local legislators," and have important roles to carry out at board meetings. This publication is a handy reference to some of the most common questions or issues that arise in scheduling, conducting and participating in township board meetings. 

    Policy Matters! Using Board & Administrative Policies to Manage Your Township

    In this hands-on book, township board members and staff will find sample policies, practical commentaries and expert tips to get your township started using a policy approach to board governance, ethics, financial procedures and controls, office and facility administration, personnel issues, purchasing, public information, records, using technology and minimizing risk. 

    Visit the MTA Bookstore online now to order these helpful guides, or download a publication order form here!