President’s Message

Happy Spring Everyone!

As I think about what I want to share this season, I keep coming back to the incredible work we do as clerks! Our roles are demanding, dynamic, and often behind the scenes, yet essential to the smooth functioning of local government. From managing public records to administering elections and coordinating meetings, we keep everything running smoothly. It’s easy to overlook just how much we do, but without us, the gears of government wouldn’t turn as efficiently. I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your hard work and dedication.

Every day presents new challenges—whether it’s responding to public inquiries, preparing meeting packets, handling records retention and FOIA requests, managing licensing and vital records, or supporting boards and commissions. The variety of tasks keeps us on our toes and requires us to be organized, adaptable, and proactive. It’s not always easy, but the impact of our work is far-reaching. We ensure transparency, accessibility, and trust in local government, and the communities we serve rely on us to keep things running smoothly.

As the demands on our time grow, it’s important to consider how we can work more efficiently. New tools and technologies, including AI, are emerging to help streamline some of the more routine tasks. For instance, automated systems are beginning to assist in processing permit applications, reducing time spent on manual data entry. AI chatbots are also making an impact by answering basic inquiries from residents, which allows us to focus on the more complex, hands-on work. These tools are meant to help us manage our workloads, not replace the vital personal connections we build with the communities we serve.

One of our greatest strengths as clerks is the support and shared knowledge within our network. Whether through advice, best practices, or problem-solving, the experiences we share with one another help us tackle the challenges we face. This community makes us all better at what we do and reminds us that we’re never alone in our work.

In fact, MAMC has expanded significantly, now with nearly 1,100 members representing over 700 communities. This achievement is all thanks to you—the members—whose commitment keeps the energy and strength of our association thriving!

The MAMC Board has also been working hard to ensure that every dollar spent by your association is used wisely and effectively. We are committed to continuing to grow and enhance the value we provide to you, our members. In the near future, we’ll be announcing exciting new partnerships and programs that will bring even more benefits to your work and to the communities you serve.

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone for MAMC: our 25th Anniversary! We’ll be celebrating this achievement at this year’s Annual Conference. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come as a profession and to celebrate the meaningful impact we’ve had in our communities. The conference offers an excellent chance to gain new insights, develop new skills, and connect with others who truly understand the unique demands of our roles. We’re looking ahead with excitement, and we want you to be part of what’s next. Beyond professional development, the conference also offers a chance to recharge and reconnect with fellow clerks who share the same challenges and experiences. Don’t miss out on this special occasion!

This year’s conference theme is “Sterling Silver Jubilee!” It’s quite fitting that this is my year to serve as your president—I’m from “Sterling” Heights, silver is the traditional 25th anniversary gift, and a jubilee is all about celebrating milestones like this one! I hope to see you all there!

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your president; it has truly been an honor!

And a special thank you to the MAMC Board of Directors. You all inspire me in more ways than you realize!

See you all soon!!

Sincerely,

Melanie D. Ryska, MiPMC/CMC
City of Sterling Heights