Join Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes at the 2025 Michigan Townships Association Conference

Fuel up with lunch while our expert attorneys serve up fast, thought-provoking mini-presentations on the hottest municipal topics. In just five minutes each, you’ll gain quick insights, actionable advice, and real-world lessons learned. From zoning disputes to surprising FOIA requests, these lightning talks are packed with knowledge—and maybe even a laugh or two. Stick around to ask questions or share your own stories during this engaging and interactive session.

Panel of FSBR Attorneys

Nearly everyone has heard the term “hostile work environment,” and just about everyone has some idea what harassment and discrimination are. But those terms and how they work in the employment setting is very commonly misunderstood by township employees, department heads, and elected officials. This confusion can result in misunderstandings, inconsistent treatment, and, at worst, can allow actual discrimination or harassment to continue unchecked. Join Lizzie Mills and Tom Forgione as they discuss what unlawful discrimination and harassment mean to employment attorneys, what a “hostile work environment” is, and what steps you can and must take to address these problems in your township.

Helen “Lizzie” Mills and Tom Forgione, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes

It is certainly true that offering pension (and retirement) benefits can be a critical recruitment and retention tool for townships. But many townships and employees still face rising or unbearable costs associated with providing those very benefits. Join us to learn strategies for tackling unfunded liability, market volatility, and collaborating with stakeholders (like the Board, employees, and unions) to achieve the balance between offering a strong benefit and ensuring your township and your employees can afford it.

Marne Daggett, MERS, Helen “Lizzie” Mills, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes, and Rod Taylor, Maner Costerisan

The Right to Farm Act provides protection for old and expanding commercial farms. While traditional agriculture poses less complications for modern zoning and planning, the same is not true of farm markets and roadside stands. Farm markets and roadside stands have surged post-pandemic with at-home agricultural production. Come learn about regulation of farm markets, roadside stands, value-added agriculture and best practices of promoting local agriculture and working through the Right to Farm Act.

Christopher Patterson and Matthew Kuschel, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes

Join us for a discussion on the unique challenges faced by Michigan townships in managing water and sewer utilities. These essential utilities operate without direct government regulation, leaving the decision-making to elected officials who often have limited knowledge or experience in water and sewer utility operation and finance. Aging infrastructure necessitates costly replacements, leading to rate increases that can sometimes unfairly burden municipal customers. During this session, we will explore various strategies and funding options. Learn how your township can navigate these complex issues and secure fair and sustainable water and sewer solutions for your community’s future.

Eric Conn and Jacob Witte, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes and Andrew Burnham, Stantec

Discover innovative ways townships can achieve more by working together. This session explores intergovernmental partnerships that enhance services and expand opportunities while stretching limited budgets. From shared emergency services and utilities to regional planning efforts, participants will learn practical approaches to collaboration that can improve efficiency and meet community needs. Real-world examples will highlight how neighboring communities have successfully teamed up to enforce ordinances, such as addressing blight and nuisances, in a cost-effective manner. The discussion will also address common barriers to cooperation, and provide strategies for overcoming them. Join us to explore how collaboration can transform your township’s approach to service delivery, paving the way for mutually beneficial relationships and stronger communities.

William Fahey and Kyle O’Meara, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes

After a lengthy legal battle, the Earned Sick Time Act will go into effect February 21, 2025. This new law will be a sea change for Michigan township employers, many of which will be required to provide paid sick time for the first time. The Earned Sick Time Act grants broad entitlements of paid sick time for all township employees, regardless of the size of the township or the hours of the employee. Join Lizzie Mills and Tom Forgione to discuss the requirements of the Earned Sick Time Act, the common misunderstandings about sick time requirements, and the real-world experience of employers through the first month of mandatory paid sick time.

Helen “Lizzie” Mills and Tom Forgione, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes