MAC is pleased to announce another joint learning opportunity for county commissioners between its County Commissioner Academy and MSU Extension on June 10, 2026.
Time and location: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kirtland Community College, 4800 W. Four Mile Road, Grayling, MI 49738.
Click here to register for June 10 event in Grayling.
With county commissioner terms now four years in length, 2026 marks “midterm” for county officials. A new event, “NCS Midterms” is a day-long session that will build on foundations from the traditional New Commissioner School (last held in late 2024) and lessons commissioners have learned in the first two years of their terms. Participants will gain deeper understanding of county finances and how state and federal decisions may impact the next few years, discuss examples of successful intergovernmental relationships, and build skills to navigate today’s challenging political environment and lead a thriving community.
What will be covered:
- State and local fiscal outlook: Hear an overview of the state and county fiscal outlook, including impacts of the recent state and federal legislation, with a focus on implications for county governance and decision-making.
- Intergovernmental collaboration best practices: A panel of county officials will discuss how they successfully manage intergovernmental collaboration, including building capacity to provide contracted services to local governments in their county. Learn promising practices and consider the role of commissioners in building strong collaborative efforts.
- Effective governance in a challenging climate: When facing complex challenges, extraordinary governance is essential to success. This session will focus on navigating political challenges through ethical public service and value guided leadership.
- Networking with other county officials: Make use of time together to network with other county officials and learn new perspectives and approaches to addressing challenges similar to those in your own county.
Who should attend:
The format is aimed at county commissioners, but it also is valuable for administrative staff and other elected county officials.
Program Details:
Cost: $75 per person more than 30 days prior to an event; $100 within 30 days (includes lunch, snacks and materials). Registrations cancelled after registration closes will incur a $25 cancellation fee.
Registration deadline: June 3, 2026
Learning credits: This new event will earn a commissioner 2 credits toward their “Year 2” certificate in MAC’s County Commissioner Academy.
Special promotion: The first 40 county commissioners who register will receive a complimentary copy of Michigan’s County Courthouses, a 200-page volume detailing the history of our state’s 83 courthouses over the last 150 years.
Questions?
- For questions on registration issues, contact MSU Extension’s Eric Walcott at walcott3@msu.edu.
- For questions about MAC’s County Commissioner Academy, contact Derek Melot at melot@micounties.org.