September 11, 2024

 

8:30–10:30 a.m.

Collaborative Project Delivery Education Tour (invite only)

Provided by FLEIS & VANDENBRINK

 

11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Conference Registration Open

Garden Terrace

 

11:30 a.m.

Carriage Departs From Mission Point to The Grand Hotel

12–1 p.m.

First Time Attendee Lunch (pre-registration required)

Cottage Restaurant

 

12–1:30 p.m.

Networking Lunch

Main Dining Room

 

1:30–4 p.m.

Opening General Session & Community Excellence Award (CEA) Finalist Presentations

An Honest Look at Creating Thriving Communities 

Theatre

Local leaders around our state are working to put Michigan in the best position for our future by creating thriving communities. This work requires us to take an honest look at where we are, where we want to go, and what we intrinsically know about accomplishing it. Let’s leave behind the old notion of what our communities used to look like (and why), explore what they should look like now, and how we can work together for Michigan’s future. Join us for this candid and inspirational session from Michigan Municipal League CEO and Executive Director, Daniel Gilmartin.  

Speaker

Daniel P. Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO, Michigan Municipal League

 

4–5:30 p.m.

Community Excellence Award Voting Open

Art Gallery

 

4:30 p.m.

Carriage Departs from The Grand Hotel to Mission Point

4–4:30 p.m.

Delegate Check-In

Terrace Room

 

4:30–5:30 p.m.

Annual Business Meeting

Terrace Room

 

6–7 p.m.

Welcome Reception

Front Porch

September 12, 2024

 

7 a.m.–6 p.m.

Conference Registration Open

Garden Terrace

 

7:30–9 a.m.

Networking Breakfast

Main Dining Room

 

7:30–9 a.m.

Michigan Association of Mayors (MAM) Annual Meeting & Breakfast

(pre-registration required)

Cottage Restaurant

 

8 a.m.

Carriage Departs From Mission Point to The Grand Hotel

8 a.m.–6 p.m.

Community Excellence Award Voting Open

Art Gallery

 

8 a.m.–6 p.m.

League Membership and Information Table Open

Garden Terrace

9–10:30 a.m.

Morning General Session

Cities from a National Perspective  

Theatre

Gain a national perspective on the state of cities from the CEO and Executive Director of the National League of Cities (NLC), Clarence E. Anthony. NLC has been touring the country for the last year celebrating their 100th anniversary. This tour has provided them with first-hand accounts of how cities are doing around the country. Clarence will give his insight on how we as a nation are changing cities and the role cities have in changing the nation.  

Sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield

Speaker

Clarence E. Anthony, CEO and Executive Director, National League of Cities (NLC) 

 

10:30–10:45 a.m.

Networking Break

 

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Breakout Sessions

Opportunities for Philanthropic Partnerships in Housing Investment  

Headquarters of The Capitol Club

Many new financial tools and resources for housing projects are available for our municipalities. Yet implementation remains elusive, and costs continue to rise. Philanthropic support can help bridge the persistent gap in gathering capital for housing projects. Their support provides additional strategies, resources, and funds that will not add to the financial burden of projects. Learn about what opportunities exist and how your community can benefit from these partnerships.   

Speakers

Kittie Tuinstra, Executive Director, Dogwood Community Development
Bonnie Gettys, President/CEO, Barry Community Foundation
Monica Jewell, Executive Director, Pennies from Heaven Foundation
Lesley D. Slavitt, Executive Director, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy (moderator)

Implementing AI in Our Municipalities  

Brighton Pavilion

Experts from the University of Michigan will present information about artificial intelligence (AI) in the municipal space from their new white paper. They will explore how AI can be used to improve the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of municipal services. They will also discuss the current and potential applications of AI in various domains. Attendees will gain understanding about the key factors and considerations for designing and deploying AI solutions in a municipal context and identify the opportunities and risks of using AI to enhance municipal services. 

Sponsored by ProofPoint

Speakers

Molly Kleinman, Managing Director, Science, Technology, & Public Policy Program, University of Michigan

Reducing or Eliminating Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Municipal Operations and Beyond   

Straits of Mackinac

The cohort of the City of Madison Heights, in partnership with Ferndale, Oak Park, and the Lamphere School District, were recently awarded $500K by the Department of Energy to create a regional decarbonization plan. Their project is one of two in Michigan selected and one of 40 in the nation. Come learn how they are embracing energy efficiency as a strategy for keeping their fiscal house in order. Madison Heights has been investing in energy efficiencies in their operations since 2008. They will share their learnings and how this transformational project for the region will reduce climate emissions on a regional level. 

Speakers

Melissa Marsh, City Manager, City of Madison Heights
Michelle Peters, Program Manager, Energy Sciences

Thriving Communities Deep Dive 

Terrace Room

Building off what was discussed in our general sessions, League staff will unveil some of our work. This session is for communities who want to learn more and get involved with developing our next steps. We will also have a Q&A and the opportunity to test out some of our prototype tools! 

Speakers

Richard Murphy, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs, Michigan Municipal League
Herasanna Richards, Legislative Associate, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League

Council-Manager Relationships  

Grand Pavilion

Back by popular demand! Now more than ever, building relationships and understanding the roles of city council and how they can interact with their administration is critical to the success of our communities. When the relationship between the city manager and city council breaks down, forward motion slows, time and resources are wasted, trust and respect are damaged, and, ultimately, the community will not get what it deserves. Come hear from both sides of the equation and learn first hand about the appropriate roles for elected officials and managers, what strategies can be put into place to help build a productive relationship, and hear examples directly from some seasoned elected officials and managers. 

Speakers

Pat McGinnis, City Manager, City of Portage

Sarah Moyer-Cale, City Manager, City of Hastings

Sheila Tomkowiak, Mayor, City of Grosse Point

Juan Ganum, City Manager, City of Bridgman

Bob Slattery, former Mayor of Mount Morris; League Past President

Transforming Employee Health Insurance

Second only to payroll, employee health care spending is continuing to escalate. This is often dealt with through annual changes that confuse employees and diminish overall plan value. Michigan Planners has the tools you need to make your plan a simple, long-term solution to build and maintain a package that is the best fit for you and your employees. Join them to learn more about how they have provided access to affordable and comprehensive coverage for over 60 years.

Gerald R. Ford Conference Room

Speaker

Aaron MacDonald, Chief Strategy Officer, Michigan Planners, Inc.

 

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Networking Luncheon

Main Dining Room

 

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Michigan Women in Municipal Government (MWIMG) Annual Meeting & Luncheon

(additional fee and pre-registration required)

Cottage Restaurant

 

1–2:30 p.m.

Afternoon General Session

Theatre

Michigan as a Placemaking Leader  

Michigan has been a leader in placemaking for over a decade. We have seen the impact it has had in our communities, and we should bring awareness to this amazing work. We are a state already known for its beauty, resilience, and grit, and we have an opportunity to expand this recognition. This session will recount, reflect, and build on Michigan’s unparalleled leadership in the global placemaking movement with one of the top experts in the world, who has more than 20 years of experience working in placemaking, Ethan Kent.  

Speaker

Ethan Kent, Executive Director, PlacemakingX  

 

2:30-2:45 p.m.

Networking Break

 

2:45–3:45 p.m.

Breakout Sessions

Fostering Neighborhood Connections 

Headquarters of The Capitol Club

Becoming an engaged neighbor addresses significant societal issues like loneliness and isolation. It also increases our social capital and sense of belonging, which are crucial for building thriving communities and businesses. Join us for an insightful session with David Burton, a leading expert in neighboring and community development with over 23 years of experience. This session will cover the impact of disconnect among neighbors, strategies to become an engaged neighbor (including how communities can foster neighborhood connections), and real-life stories of how building these connections has transformed communities and lives.  

Speaker

David Burton, Field Specialist in Community Development, University of Missouri Extension

 

Continuing Michigan’s Placemaking Leadership Conversation  

Brighton Pavilion

This breakout session will build off our general session with placemaking expert Ethan Kent. Join him to further explore Michigan’s opportunities as a placemaking leader. We already have a stake in the global placemaking movement, which we should be proud of. Come learn about how we can continue this momentum and create an even larger impact in our communities.  

Speaker

Ethan Kent, Executive Director, PlacemakingX

 

Prioritizing Well-Being in Public Service  

Straits of Mackinac

Discover the keys to sustainable leadership as we delve into prioritizing well-being and self-care for local government officials. Explore practical strategies and resources to enhance resilience, manage stress, and foster a culture of wellness for yourself and within governmental organizations, ultimately leading to healthier, more effective leadership and service delivery. 

Speaker

Amy Perschbacher, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor & Owner/Director, Ronan Psychological Associates, Mayor, Mount Pleasant

Legislative Update  

Grand Pavilion

From the passage of the state budget to discussions on short-term rentals, election reform, and economic development, the legislature continues to tackle issues facing local government. With elections and lame duck around the corner, the final months of the 2023–24 legislative session are sure to be busy. Our lobbying team will break it all down for you and offer insights on what legislation is likely to see action and, more importantly, how you—our members—can engage!  

Speakers

John LaMacchia II, Director, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League
Jennifer Rigterink, Assistant Director, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League
Herasanna Richards, Legislative Associate, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League

 

Equitable Small Business Ecosystems: Tangible Ways to Support Your Business Community  

Gerald R. Ford Conference Room

The success of our member communities is directly connected to the success of their local economies. The League and MML Foundation’s Local Economies Initiative explores local small business and entrepreneurship systems within smaller southeast Michigan communities. After more than two years on the ground, we are excited to share emerging findings! Learn about building equitable small business ecosystems, find inspiration from innovation happening right now in our communities, and walk away with practical steps to better support your small businesses. 

Speakers

Rachel Skylis, Program Officer, Michigan Municipal League Foundation
Richard Murphy, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs, Michigan Municipal League
Mara Braciszewski, Senior Planner, McKenna

 

4:15 p.m.

Carriage Departs From The Grand Hotel to Mission Point

5–6:30 p.m.

Terrace Room

Vendor Reception

Join us for our newest offering the vendor reception. Convention attendees, organizations, and companies can mingle and create connections that benefit Michigan communities.

 

September 13, 2024

 

7–10:30 a.m.

Conference Registration Open

Garden Terrace

 

7:30–9 a.m.

Networking Breakfast

Main Dining Room

 

7:30–9 a.m.

Michigan Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (MBC-LEO) Breakfast & Membership Meeting

(pre-registration required)

Cottage Restaurant

 

8 a.m.

Carriage Departs From Mission Point to The Grand Hotel

8–10:30 a.m.

League Membership and Information Table Open

Garden Terrace

 

9–10 a.m.

Breakout Sessions

The Role of Local Leaders in Preparing for Mass Shootings (Hosted by MBC-LEO) 

Headquarters of The Capitol Club

As mass shootings continue to devastate communities across our nation, preparedness and knowing how to respond are critical to public service. This session will feature subject matter experts who will discuss essential tools and resources for local leaders, so they can be ready in the event of a mass shooting. Topics will include what municipal officials can do to prepare, planning victim services, and how to ensure law enforcement officials have the training and equipment they need. 

Speakers

Sarah Peck, Director, UnitedOnGuns, Public Health Advocacy Institute, Northeastern University
Lauren Thompson-Phillips, Public Information Officer, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division Michigan State Police
Scott Brooks, Captain, Charlotte Police Department

 

The Anatomy of an Election

Brighton Pavilion

The 2024 election might raise questions about election integrity in your community. If you would like to gain a deeper understanding of what the process entails, including the checks and balances that are in place to protect the integrity of the election process, this session is for you! Come learn the details of the process, start to finish, from an elections expert who has served many years as a clerk, several under both Secretaries of State Ruth Johnson and Jocelyn Benson. You will leave with a renewed understanding of our system and the ability to assure your residents.

Speaker

Marie McKenna-Wicks, City Clerk, City of East Lansing

 

Waste Not, Want Not: Eliminating Food Waste and Alleviating Hunger  

Straits of Mackinac

Food is the second largest solid waste material in Michigan landfills. The City of Southfield wants to prevent 15 thousand tons of food from being sent to the landfill each year and to create a blueprint for other communities to follow. Eliminating food waste is key for meeting the state’s 2050 carbon neutrality goal. But this isn’t just about the planet, it’s also about alleviating food insecurity. Much of the food that is wasted could be redirected to its highest and best use: feeding people. Southfield is setting out to examine the role that local governments play in meeting these ambitious goals.

Speaker

Danielle Todd, Executive Director, Make Food Not Waste

 

AI in Action: Case Studies from Michigan Communities 

Terrace Room

This session will feature representatives from several Michigan communities that have successfully implemented artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to address various challenges and opportunities. They will show how AI can be used to improve local services, ranging from accessibility and public safety to citizen engagement. They will also discuss the lessons learned along the way, best practices, and the future as they leverage AI to enhance their municipal services. 

 

Modular Housing: Another Piece of the Housing Pie  

Grand Pavilion

Our communities are hungry for housing. We know one of the barriers to building new homes is a lack of developers/building trades in certain areas. Modular housing development can help provide a solution to these barriers. The construction processes for modular homes allows most of the building to happen off-site, in places with available labor and in climate-controlled conditions, with only final assembly happening on the construction site. The result is housing that is built to the same codes and standards but can often be cheaper and achieved with less active construction disruption to the neighborhood.    

Speakers

Melissa Milton-Pung, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs, Michigan Municipal League
Amin Irving, Founder, President, & CEO, Ginosko Development Company

 

Fund a Better Way with MI Funding Hub

Gerald R. Ford Conference Room

It’s no secret – grants can have a meaningful impact on the communities we live in. But many municipalities lack the capacity to track and access funding. Enter MI Funding Hub: an online grant navigation tool and free technical assistance center to help local leaders access state and federal funding. In this session you’ll learn how our talented Help Desk team can assist you identifying, planning for, and preparing successful grant applications for your priority projects.

Speaker

Shanna Draheim, Director, Policy Research Labs, Michigan Municipal League
Steve Habusta, Commissioner, City of Sault Ste. Marie

 

10–10:30 a.m.

Networking Break

 

10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

Closing General Session and Announcement of 2024 Community Excellence Award Winner

The State of AI in Government: Exploring the Future

Theatre

Presented by the Center for Public Sector AI, this keynote presentation delves into the present status of Artificial Intelligence in the GovTech sector. This session offers a detailed examination of AI’s applications within state and local governments. Explore AI’s potential future paths in GovTech with emerging trends and how leaders can prepare for AI’s impact. The session will also address starting points for AI implementation, stressing the importance of collaboration, ethical considerations, and equitable technology access. This forward-looking talk will equip attendees with a thorough understanding of AI’s trajectory in GovTech and provide practical insights to effectively leverage AI for public sector innovation and advancement.

Speaker

Teri Takai, Senior Vice President, Center for Digital Government