Log In

Catalog Advanced Search

Search by Category
Search by Format
Sort By
Search by Favorites
Search by Keyword
Search by Category
Search by Format
Search by Speakers
Credits Offered
Search in Packages
Search by Date Range
Products are filtered by different dates, depending on the combination of live and on-demand components that they contain, and on whether any live components are over or not.
Start
End
Search by Favorites
Search by Keyword
Sort By

110 Results

  • Practical Approaches to Records Management
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Get an overview of records management from retention and disposal schedules to storage and destruction techniques. Walk away with tips for email retention and reproduction, and ways to tame your “paper tiger.”

    Get an overview of records management from retention and disposal schedules to storage and destruction techniques. Walk away with tips for email retention and reproduction, and ways to tame your “paper tiger.”

    Speaker: Sam Beland, Government Records Analyst, Records Management Services, Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

    Sam Beland

    Government Records and Information Analyst Government Records and Information Analyst

    Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget

    Sam is a Government Records Analyst at the State of Michigan's Records Management Services, serving as a subject matter expert in records management, information governance, and administration. Her expertise includes developing and maintaining record retention schedules, providing recordkeeping consulting services, managing vendors for record management services, participating in enterprise-wide projects for lifecycle management policies within M365 applications, and advising State of Michigan agencies on how to effectively manage information within the numerous electronic storage solutions available to them. 

    She is also actively involved in professional associations such as ARMA and NAGARA, having served on ARMA Chapter Board of Directors since 2016 (currently President of ARMA Michigan), and for various NAGARA committees (currently as Chair for NAGARA's Professional Development Committee).

  • Elections Update (April 2025)
    Contains 2 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Hear directly from the Secretary of State’s office and state Bureau of Elections on the hot issues in Michigan elections.

    Hear directly from the Secretary of State’s office and state Bureau of Elections on the hot issues in Michigan elections. We’ll share the lessons learned from 2024 general elections, including early voting, absentee voting and more.

    Speaker: Kristi Dougan, Manager, Training and Elections Assistance, Michigan Bureau of Elections, Michigan Department of State

    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.

  • Now You Know - The Perks of the Job: Understanding Municipal Benefits
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    A guide to understanding municipal benefits to ensure your township remains both compliant and competitive.

    The Perks of the Job: Understanding Municipal Benefits

    Navigating employee benefits in the public sector can be tricky--but it doesn't have to be. Do you know the difference between fringe, health, and retirement benefits? Or what it takes to present and manage these options for your township board team? Contrary to common belief, townships are not exempt from many of the same employment laws that govern the private sector. This webinar will help you understand your responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your township remains compliant and competitive.

    **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.**

    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.

  • Access Granted: What You Need to Know About the New ADA Website Accessibility Requirements
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Get an overview of the legalities and requirements of the new 2026-2027 ADA requirements for websites, so you can ensure your township's website is accessible and compliant before the deadline.

    Have you heard about the 2026-2027 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for township websites? We can help! Join us for a review of the legalities and expert insights into the “hows and whys” of website accessibility. We’ll share best practices and simple, actionable steps to ensure compliance. Whether you’re a webmaster, content creator or township official, you’ll walk away with practical tips to keep your township’s website accessible—and compliant—before the deadline.

    Speakers: Kyle Shumaker, President, Shumaker Technology Group; and Michael Bila, Attorney, Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

    Kyle Shumaker

    President

    Shumaker Technology Group

    Kyle’s formal tech education began at Lansing Eastern High School where he attended their Cisco Networking Academy program and earned his Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential. He also got his start in web development working on the high school and school district websites and taking on a few small freelance projects. He earned his degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Michigan State, founding Shumaker Technology Group (STG) in 2007 just before graduating. Currently Kyle and Shumaker Tech Group assist over 200 municipal clients in the State of Michigan with their website, document management, aerial drone photography and other technology needs.

    Many township clerks will recognize Kyle and his team at Shumaker Technology Group from the ridiculous track uniforms they wear while participation in the Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks MAMC 5k Race, where they like to prove that they go the extra mile to keep your website running. 

    Michael Bila

    MTA Legal Counsel

    Bauckham, Thall, Seeber, Kaufman & Koches, PC

    Michael Bila is an attorney with the Kalmazoo-based firm Bauckham Thall Seeber Kaufman & Koches, PC. He joined the firm in 2022 after graduating from the University of Michigan Law School, where he also gained government law experience working for the City of Ann Arbor, the Michigan Department of Attorney General Criminal Trials & Appeals Division, and the Michigan Department of Attorney General Corporate Oversight Division. In addition to his government work, Michael also served as a defense attorney with the University of Michigan’s Juvenile Justice Clinic representing underserved youth.

  • 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

    image

    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

  • Choosing the Right Township Manager
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Gain insights into the key stages of recruitment of your next township manager. We’ll review common pitfalls and offer strategies for negotiating, managing expectations and ensuring the right fit for your township team. Learn tips for working with a recruiter to ensure a successful, seamless selection of a manager who fits your community’s needs.

    Gain insights into the key stages of recruitment of your next township manager. We’ll review common pitfalls and offer strategies for negotiating, managing expectations and ensuring the right fit for your township team. Learn tips for working with a recruiter to ensure a successful, seamless selection of a manager who fits your community’s needs.

    Speaker: Stacy Belisle, Attorney, McGraw Morris, PC

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

    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.

  • Building Bridges: Confidence as the Catalyst for Collaboration
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Learn how you can harness confidence in yourself, and others, to foster a more cohesive and collaborative environment at your township.

    Confidence isn’t just a personal trait. It’s a powerful tool for uniting diverse perspectives and driving effective collaboration within your township board and community. Building on his Conference keynote
    address, Juan Bendaña will provide hands-on strategies to harness confidence in yourself, and others, to foster a more cohesive and collaborative environment. Discover how to leverage your confidence to bridge gaps between differing opinions, cultivate trust among your peers, and create a culture where every voice is valued.

    Speaker: MTA 2025 Conference Keynoter Juan Bendaña

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

  • Big Picture Capital Improvement Plan Funding
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Dig into long-term capital improvement funding and turn your plans into reality.

    Resources are available that enable your township to fund long-term holistic plans for your entire community. We’ll dig into long-term capital improvement plans and help you turn those forecasts into a realistic  funding plan! Discussion includes funding options such as cash reserves, grants and bond financing of projects. Specific project finance examples include water and sewer projects, and lead service line replacements.  We’ll also cover the State Revolving Fund, USDA Rural Development and open market bond issuance processes.

    Speaker: Andy Campbell, CPA, Bendzinski & Co., Municipal Finance Advisors

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

    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.


  • Budget Development & Forecasting
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Forecasting revenues is a fundamental part of budgeting and financial planning for your township’s future, allowing you to anticipate resource availability and plan accordingly. Review budgetary concepts and legal requirements, explore best practices for preparing, adopting and monitoring your township’s budget, and walk away with techniques for short- and long-term forecasting.

    Forecasting revenues is a fundamental part of budgeting and financial planning for your township’s future, allowing you to anticipate resource availability and plan accordingly. Review budgetary concepts and legal requirements, explore best practices for preparing, adopting and monitoring your township’s budget, and walk away with techniques for short- and long-term forecasting.

    Speakers: Brian Camiller, Partner, Government Vertical Leader, and Carolyn Lorenz, Senior Manager, Plante Moran

    Recorded at MTA 2025 Annual Conference

    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.