EWING TOWNSHIP: Local township supervisor earns Township Governance Academy credential

By Press release submission

Sep 20, 2018

Ewing Township issued the following announcement on Sept. 12.

Bertrand Township (Berrien Co.) Supervisor Steve Hicks has taken the next step to enhance the effectiveness of his township. With his completion of the Michigan Townships Association’s (MTA) intensive Township Governance Academy (TGA), he now has access to enhanced tools and decision-making processes that will help shape his community for years to come.

Supervisor Steve Hicks accepting award at Conference

Hicks has earned MTA’s coveted TGA credential and is encouraging other township officials to complete the program as well.

“TGA gives you a better understanding of the processes of township government and gives you the confidence to pursue growth and progress in your community,” Hicks said. “I am truly blessed to have the love and support of my family and friends during the TGA. I feel honored to have been elected by the residents of Bertrand Township to serve as their supervisor.”

TGA is a voluntary credentialing program intended to provide township board members and other local leaders with cutting-edge knowledge and expanded skills needed to assist in making more effective decisions for the benefit of their township. The Academy, which challenges candidates to tie together learning and practical experience, consists of 11 courses and includes a requirement for elective credits.

Created and administered by the MTA Knowledge Center, this program is designed to professionally challenge township officials by offering new ideas, sharing best practices and providing a hands-on approach to dealing more effectively with everyday issues that the board may face. Hicks says the program also helps to dispel myths about local government and explains how it should function properly.

Hicks first began serving his township in 2012, when he was elected trustee. Then, when the previous supervisor resigned in 2013, Hicks was appointed to the office. He also serves the Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance, the Niles Area Transportation Study and the Southwestern Michigan Community Ambulance Service.

Original source can be found here.