Township officials converge on Lansing for conference

More than 1,000 local officials and guests, representing hundreds of townships from 68 counties across Michigan, will convene next week for the largest gathering of municipal officials in the state.

The Michigan Townships Association (MTA) will host its 2017 Annual Educational Conference & Expo, April 10-13, at the Lansing Center.

Township officials from all corners of the state will gather for three days of education—including more than 70 educational sessions—and networking at the event, which also includes the largest municipal expo in the state, with more than 100 exhibitors.

This year’s conference aims to help Michigan’s township officials—whether newly elected or a veteran leader—come together to make a difference for their communities, their region and their state. Dr. Sally Karioth, best known for her work in helping folks shed behaviors that can get in the way of celebrating their unique gifts, will deliver the keynote address at the Conference General Session, held at 9 a.m. Wednesday, April 12.

Education is the focus of the week, and officials can choose from dozens of educational sessions throughout the event, providing them with information on statutory duties and core township services, as well as township trends and legislative updates. Sessions will cover raising revenue in a stagnant economy, 21st century infrastructure, wind energy and the new Medical Marijuana Facilities Licensing Act, among many other topics. MTA has invited a number of state and legislative leaders, including Sen. Rick Jones; Claire Khouri, deputy director of strategic policy for Gov. Rick Snyder; Nick Khouri, State of Michigan treasurer; and Chris Thomas, Michigan Bureau of Elections director.

“When township officials come together, their shared values for public service, leadership and community engagement are far more powerful than their differences,” MTA Executive Director Larry Merrill said. “As throngs of township officials descend upon our capitol city, it serves as a testimony to the vital role Michigan’s townships play to protect, serve and grow the economy.”