New commissioner school text.

Congratulations on your election to county government!

We wish you the best as you serve your community in this valuable and influential role. Please join us at our upcoming virtual school that will feature both live webinars and self-paced online learning starting this November.

Who should attend:

Newly elected & experienced commissioners, administrative staff and other elected county officials

What will be covered:

  • Learn about County Commissioner roles and responsibilities and the structure of county government
  • Explore the basics of county finance
  • Learn best practices for leading and participating in public meetings
  • Network with other elected officials

Cost: $125 per person

New Hybrid Format for 2022

The 2022 program will offer a hybrid model for participants. The program will feature an introductory session via zoom followed by access to the online learning modules. Then participants will have the opportunity to attend one of four locations for in-person learning and networking session with experts and experienced commissioners.

Participants are strongly encouraged to register prior to the Nov. 18 introductory session to ensure time for the online self-paced work that is necessary before attending the in-person training.

Introductory Session - 45 minutes
  • November 18 at 11 a.m.
    • Meeting Link will be provided after registration and payment
Program Outline:
  • Brief Welcome from MSU Extension Director, Quentin Tyler 
  • Brief Welcome MAC Executive Director Currie (tentative)
  • Program Overview and Access Information for D2L 
  • Details about Onsite Networking 

November 18- December 12- Self-paced, Asynchronous Online Learning for all cohorts
 Program Details:
  • Introduction to County Government
  • Introduction to County Finance
  • Budgeting for Fiscal Sustainability
  • Open Meetings Act
  • Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure
NCS In-Person Sessions - 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    • To allow for onsite preparation registration closes Nov. 22
    • To allow for onsite preparation registration closes Nov. 22
    • To allow for onsite preparation registration closes Dec. 1
    • To allow for onsite preparation registration closes Dec. 8

If you need to register after a deadline please contact Megghan Honke Seidel at honkemeg@msu.edu or 989-666-3773.

Program Details:

9 a.m. - Welcome from MSUE Administration

9:30 a.m. - Introduction/ Review Materials –Key Points

11:30 a.m. - MAC Presentations  

12:00 p.m. - Lunch  

1:00 p.m. - MAC Networking  

1:30 p.m. - Transition to MSUE Roundtables

1:45 p.m. - RoundTable Discussions -Topics Related to Course

3:45 p.m. - Wrap Up

4:30 p.m. - Adjourn

Technology Requirements: 

Below are recommendations for the optimal interactive online training:

  •  A computer, laptop or tablet with latest version of your browser
  •  A reliable, internet connection - broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE)
  •  Webcam or HD webcam - built-in or USB plug-in
  •  Speakers and a microphone - built-in or USB plug-in or wireless Bluetooth
  •  Latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader

Supplement Materials: Guide to Michigan County Government

Workshop participants can purchase a copy of the newly revised Guide to Michigan County Government (5th Edition) at a discounted rate! Click here to purchase the guide. Use code MIGOV for a 25% discount. Orders of 4 or more will automatically receive 30% off.


Lodging Available If Needed:


  • $105 Standard Double Room Rate or $115 for Premium Queen or King Room | Must book by October 28, 2022
  • Book rooms at www.bavarianinn.com, click on book a room and in the Group Code box put your group number of 13G7J0


Accommodations

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.

Contact Information

For registration questions, contact ANR Event Services at 517-353-3175 or events@anr.msu.edu. For questions about the program, please contact John Amrhein at 231-922-4627 or amrhein@msu.edu or Eric Walcott at 517-353-9106 or walcott3@msu.edu.