Shelby Twp. Board Agrees to Renew MTA Membership

The Shelby Township Board of Trustees agreed Tuesday evening to pay $5,885 in annual dues to the Michigan Township Association.

The MTA is a networking and lobbying organization made up of 1,600 Michigan township officials, and offers educational resources to local governments.

“It’s a valuable tool for part-time officials to get training and come here and speak intelligently to the residents,” said Trustee Michael Flynn.

Several residents raised concerns about the membership dues, quoting that in tough economic times, most residents have had to cut back on educational courses, and so should the township.

Shelby Township Supervisor Richard Stathakis said the MTA has been helpful in facilitating the with Shelby Township, among other things.

The MTA’s training courses are not limited to township officials. There are also training courses for the city attorney and the accessing department, said Clerk Terri Kowal.

“I will be in favor of this tonight,” said Trustee Lisa Manzella, who mentioned some of the benefits she received during training.

“I am really disappointed that the board couldn’t vote no on the MTA–just for one year,” said Shelby resident Ron Churchill.