Governing Essentials-Van Buren County

In January, many Michiganders will be starting their terms as elected or appointed officials in our local units of government. To help prepare local officials for their service, MSU Extension is bringing the popular Governing Essentials program to Van Buren County. Governing Essentials is a program designed for local elected and appointed officials that are looking to sharpen their skills and promote good governance practices. The program aims to cultivate a basic understanding of transparent, efficient, and impactful governance practices across three topics: 

• Navigating the Open Meetings Act - The foundation of transparent governance lies in the Michigan Open Meetings Act (OMA). The program will focus on the requirements of the OMA, which mandates elected and appointed boards to conduct meetings transparently and openly. Participants will also explore frequently asked questions. 

• Mastering Parliamentary Procedure with Robert’s Rules of Order - An understanding of parliamentary procedure is fundamental for productive meetings. Focusing on motions, debate, and decorum during meetings, participants will engage in scenario-based learning and hands-on practice to hone their skills in effective decision-making and facilitation. 

• Ethical Public Service - This session explores the principles of ethical public service, emphasizing transparency and accountability in governance. Participants will learn practical strategies to navigate ethical challenges in decision-making, and the effective use of bylaws and codes of conduct in board operations.

By attending this program, individuals involved in governance will acquire the tools needed to navigate complexities, foster transparency, and effect positive change. 

This program will be held in-person at the Van Buren County MSU Extension Offices (57418 CR 681 Hartford, MI 49057). Light refreshments will be provided, and all registrants will receive copies of the program materials and access to recorded versions of the program content, including a recording of an additional topic, Components of Extraordinary Governance. 

Cost: $20 
Cancellations received on or after Dec. 4, 2026, will not be refunded.

About the Instructors: 

The program is taught by Tyler Augst of the MSU Extension Government & Community Vitality Team. The Extension Government & Community Vitality Team helps individuals and local and tribal governments build capacity to support thriving communities by: 

• Sustainably leveraging their land-based resources for the benefit of current and future generations; 

• Supporting locally elected and appointed officials and their staff in the stewardship of human and financial resources; and 

• Using our individual talents, interests, and expertise to meet the needs of our audiences.  

Find more MSU Extension local government programs at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/van_buren/government-and-community