President's Review Education

Key To Effective Service

I want to extend a warm welcome to all the newly elected local officials from our recent municipal elections. Welcome and thank you for your willingness to take on this new, exciting role serving your community!

It has been an honor to serve my city, Moline Acres, for the past 20 years. I hope you find the same enjoyment as you learn your position as a new official. Make no mistake, sometimes the decisions are tough. But your work is critical to the citizens you serve.

It is no secret how many topics you will face in local government. Your council meetings likely cover everything from streets and pets to budgets, personnel and so much more. No person can be an expert on all topics and situations, so where do you begin?

I find that one of the best ways to continue to serve effectively is to stay educated. MML’s Elected Officials Training Conference (EOT) is coming up in Columbia June 8-9, 2023. Especially if you are a newly elected official, this is a perfect chance to receive a nuts-and-bolts review of the important issues you will regularly manage as a municipal official. This Conference is valuable for experienced officials as well, covering the changes that continually occur in the municipal arena. One of the most valuable aspects of this event is to meet your fellow elected officials, from all levels of experience. You will quickly find ways to connect and share both the challenges and successes from your community. Find all the details and registration information at www.mocities.com.

Much of the training offered at the Elected Officials Training Conference applies to requirements for the Municipal Governance Institute. This is a valuable certification offered by MML where you can become a Certified Municipal Government Official. Hundreds of Missouri officials have taken the time to become certified and can bring these skills to serve their communities in new and engaging ways. Visit the League’s website to find out more about this program. For those who have already earned this designation, take it to the next level by completing the Advanced MGI program.

With so much distrust in government that we see around us, citizens have still shown that they trust local government more than other levels of government, knowing we are best situated to use resources wisely and make the most appropriate decisions for our local communities. Maintain that trust by learning everything you can about your community and the best practices as a local government leader.

Remember that MML is here to help you. Stay up to date with MML publications and training. When you face questions and challenges, reach out! Be sure to use League staff, the MML website, training and conferences for guidance and resources to strengthen the services you offer your citizens.

by Enrico Villegas