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  • 2025 Conference On-Demand
    Contains 13 Component(s)

    Whether you couldn't attend MTA's ​​2025 Annual Conference & Expo,​​​​​​​​ or you added the recorded classes to enhance your in-person Conference experience, our recorded Conference On-Demand is an excellent way to continue your learning journey—and an incredible value. Catch all the action on the main stage and watch 10 recorded classes when (and where!) it works best for you.

    Andy Campbell

    CPA

    Bendzinski

    Andy is a Municipal Advisor with Bendzinski & Company. We work with cities, townships, villages, counties, and authorities in the areas of bond issuance, utility user rates, and asset management. We strive to help communities manage their assets in the most financially responsible way.


    Brian Camiller

    CPA & Partner

    Plante Moran

    I lead our firm’s government practice working with our team of over 200 governmental professionals to serve our clients through compliance requirements, operational best practices, financial forecasts, and strategic initiatives. I also specialize in providing permanent or temporary accounting assistance to all types of government entities in my role in Plante Moran’s Government Accounting Professionals (PMGAP) group. Whether we act as a group’s finance director, budget director, or bookkeeper, our aim is always to restore financial stability to a troubled environment. Our government clients — including cities, counties, townships, villages, authorities, and libraries — appreciate that we deliver solutions on time and under budget.

    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.

    Christopher Khorey, AICP

    Vice President

    MCKENNA

    Chris is responsible for overseeing ongoing planning and economic development services in a number of West Michigan communities. He also has deep experience developing visions for the future for communities large and small in the form of Master Plans, Downtown Plans, Sub-Area Plans, and Corridor Plans, and implementing those visions through zoning.

    Christopher holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of Notre Dame and a Master of City Planning from University of Pennsylvania.

    Hunter Whitehill

    Principal Planner

    MCKENNA

    Hunter is a Principal Planner who supports projects through various municipalities, including plan reviews, community engagement, data analysis, recreation plans, and zoning ordinances. He applies his public and private sector experience to deliver effective public-private planning practices. Hunter is experienced in writing, implementing, and administering zoning regulations in communities of all sizes. Hunter has experience throughout Michigan and Ohio creating innovative zoning ordinances founded on user-friendly and practical regulations.

    Hunter holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and regional Planning from Michigan State University as well as an Associate’s degree in Environmental Science and Society from Washtenaw Community College.

    Kyle Mucha, AICP

    Principal Planner

    MCKENNA

    Kyle is a Principal Planner who provides technical planning, review and analytical support to cities, townships and villages. Kyle has over ten years of experience with municipal operations, multi-jurisdictional cooperation, and inter-departmental coordination for projects big and small, with short and long-term positive impacts on residents and community stakeholders. Planning and zoning topics are such an interest to Kyle that he’s served on local Planning Commission and Downtown Development Authority boards. Further, Kyle also serves on the American Planning Association’s division of the Water Planning Network as a steering committee member.

    Kyle holds a Master of Arts in Geography from Western Michigan University and a Bachelors of Science in Social Science from Grand Valley State University.

    Mark Timmer

    Oceana County Road Commission Managing Director

    Oceana County Road Commission

    Experienced Managing Director with a demonstrated history of working in the Government Administration industry. IMSA Michigan Section President. Chairman of WMSRDC Region 14 Rural Taskforce. Skilled in Communication, Morale building, Public Speaking, Management, and Team Leadership. Strong business development professional with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) at James Madison College, International Relations, Minor in Spanish from Michigan State University.

    Stacy Belisle

    Attorney

    McGraw Morris P.C.

    Ms. Belisle began her legal career in 2001 and practices primarily in civil litigation, employment and labor, civil rights, municipal and immigration law. Ms. Belisle has substantial litigation experience in Michigan's state and federal courts. Her practice is focused on defending employers in employment and labor disputes involving age, sex, religious and race discrimination cases as well as Whistleblower, ADA, FMLA, civil rights, breach of employment contract, and wrongful and constructive discharge claims. She routinely defends employers in charges filed with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Michigan Department of Civil Rights and defends employers in all levels of unemployment appeals. She represents municipalities in litigation involving Michigan's Open Meeting Act and the Freedom of Information Act.

    Steve Mann

    Attorney/Principal

    Miller Canfield

    Steve Mann is an attorney with Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, PLC. He practices in the area of municipal finance, including municipal bonds, special assessments, tax increment finance, economic development, Brownfield redevelopment, and intergovernmental transactions.

    Steve currently serves his community as a trustee for Plymouth Charter Township in Wayne County and previously served a term as township supervisor.

    Kristi Dougan

    Elections Analyst

    Michigan Bureau of Elections

    Kristi Dougan is an election analyst with extensive experience in multiple areas of election administration. She joined the Michigan Bureau of Elections in 2006 and plays a leading role in the Bureau’s clerk training and education programs, including development of clerk accreditation programs. Kristi’s municipal experience is rooted in her service as the Village President of her hometown Sparta in western Michigan from 2014 to 2020 and holds a degree in Political Science from Grand Valley State University.

    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 for MTA Conference On-Demand Viewers

    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. 

    Assessing Your Township's Assessing

    Property Assessment is a core responsibility for all Michigan townships. Is your board equipped to ensure this essential function is running smoothly? This unique MTA resource covers the entire property assessment process—from why assessing in Michigan looks like it does, to building your township’s assessing team, recordkeeping to equalization, and everything in between. Written in an accessible, yet comprehensive, style, this book is a must-have for every township.

    The Township Guide to Planning & Zoning

    A comprehensive guide to planning and zoning from the township perspective, this resource provides a detailed look at the planning process and outlines elements of a successful planning program. Also included is information on the statutory authority for township planning, legal influences and limitations on zoning. 

    Township Planning & Zoning Decision-making

    Covering issues from the technical to the ethical and from day-to-day actions to those that are lasting, this handbook is intended to be at the fingertips of the township's planning and zoning officials, as a means to help them reach defensible, effective decisions and build a strong community based on sound planning principles and procedures.

    Breaking the Zoning Code

    This new book (released in 2024) decodes the complexity of the township zoning ordinance, making it easier for to implement the township’s vision and guide the future of the community. This helpful guide explores zoning regulations, why they exist, what they are intended to accomplish, and how they may be used to the benefit of your township.

    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!

    Whether you couldn't attend MTA's 2025 Annual Conference & Expo, or you added the recorded classes to enhance your in-person Conference experience, our recorded Conference On-Demand is an excellent way to continue your learning journey—and an incredible value. Catch all the action on the main stage and watch 10 recorded classes when (and where!) it works best for you.

    Here’s what you’ll get: 

    From the Main Stage 

    • Watch recorded versions of the 2025 Opening Session, General Session and Annual Meeting

    Key Breakout Sessions: 
    We’ve recorded 10 sessions covering timely township topics, so you’ll get the important education and information that you need, when it fits your schedule. Sessions Include:

    • Big Picture Capital Improvement Plan Funding
    • Budget Development and Forecasting
    • Building Bridges: Confidence as the Catalyst for Collaboration
    • Choosing the Right Township Manager: A Recruitment Roadmap
    • Elections Update
    • Fundamentals of Municipal Funding
    • Powering Up: What Public Act 233 Means for Your Township
    • Practical Approach to Records Management
    • Stay in Your Lane: Working With Your Road Commission
    • Zoning for Your Community Identity

    Additional Resources

    • Learn more about your expert speakers
    • Get access to a list of MTA vendors that can help you better serve your township 
    • Receive discounted rates on nearly 20 MTA publications that can be shipped directly to your door

  • Now You Know - Cloud Chronicles: Digital Records Management
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    MTA brings you records management experts from the State of Michigan to dive into digital records management in the second segment in our three-part webinar series.

    Cloud Chronicles: Digital Records Management

    Ready to make your records work for you? Join us as we team up with the Records Management Services Team from the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget for the second in our three-part webinar series on managing township records. We’ll show you how to transform your records management into a smooth, efficient, process. This webinar is your ticket to mastering the art of digital records management, all in just one hour. Let us help you make your files work smarter, so you don't have to work harder!

    **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. You may need to click "Activate" to begin viewing the recording.**

    Jake Polhill

    Records Management Analyst

    DTMB

    Experienced manager, HR assistant, and data analyst with a background in multinational management in the private education industry. Worked in China from 2016-2023 in teaching and management roles, focused primarily on staff management, development, and project coordination. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Power BI and SQL for handling complex data and creating tools for business intelligence.

    Jessie Weston

    Imaging Services Manager

    DTMB

    Experienced imaging specialist and records management business analyst with an emphasis on electronic document management. Certified Records Analyst with the ICRM. Experience with:

    Migrating to electronic document management • Establishing imaging operations • Managing vendors and contracts • Managing projects • Developing and delivering presentations • Maintaining EDM systems • Training and presenting • Analyzing business processes • Developing taxonomy and indexes • Analyzing and migrating data

  • Now You Know - Payroll Precision: Methods and Records
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Whether you’re new to managing employee payroll or seeking a refresher, you can’t afford to miss this session!

    Payroll Precision: Methods and Records

    Whether you’re new to managing employee payroll or seeking a refresher, you can’t afford to miss this session! We’ll review who is (and is NOT) an employee, different methods of calculating pay and the key elements of recordkeeping related to payroll, all in just one hour. Plus, attend live and get your questions answered in real time!

    **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.**

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • Now You Know - Record Ready: Basic Records Management
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Get a primer on basic records management from types of records to retention and disposal schedules, to ensure you're complying with recordkeeping responsibilities.

    Record Ready: Basic Records Management

    Join us as we team up with the Records Management Services Team from the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget for the first in our three-part webinar series on records management. We’ll begin with a review of the different types of records and explore how retention and disposal schedules can assist and protect your township. This webinar will help you understand and comply with your recordkeeping responsibilities, plus get your questions answered in real time--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.**

    Megan Malone

    Records Management Specialist

    Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget

    Caryn Wojcik

    Senior Records Analyst

    Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget

  • New Officials Training for Supervisors
    Contains 5 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

    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 Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing 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 5 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)

    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 Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • New Officials Training for Treasurers
    Contains 5 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

    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 Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • New Officials Training for Clerks
    Contains 5 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

    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 Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing 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.

  • Treasurers' Guide to Tax Collection
    Contains 5 Component(s), Includes Credits

    This course will provide an overview of the tax collection process—from preparation of the tax bill through summer and winter taxes, all the way to accounting for (and disbursement of) collections. Taught by MTA Consultant Cindy Dodge.

    Collecting property taxes is a highly visible function of the township treasurer’s office. It comes with significant responsibility not only for the large amount of money collected but also for compliance with the General Property Tax Act.

    Whether you are newly elected, a seasoned treasurer or anything in between, you’ll find value in this course, led by MTA Consultant Cindy Dodge, which includes discussion on:
    • Getting started
    • Preparation of the tax bill
    • Summer taxes
    • Winter taxes
    • Accounting for and disbursement of collections
    • Settlement
    • Delinquent personal property tax

    You won’t want to miss this review of applicable laws, “best practices” and so much more! This workshop is also appropriate for deputy treasurers and any member of your township team who has some responsibility in the property tax collection process.

    Cindy Dodge

    MTA Consultant

    Cindy Dodge joined MTA in 2006 as a Member Information Liaison, hailing from Williamstown Township in Ingham County where she served as Clerk since 2005. She had been involved with the township since 2003 in other roles, including assistant to the supervisor, planning commissioner, and assistant to the planning commission. She is currently a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer. Now an MTA Consultant, Cindy provides township officials and employees with information and resources via phone and email regarding the day-to-day functions of township government. She also assist in developing resource materials, and presents workshop and Conference sessions as well as teaching live and recorded webinar courses.

  • 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.