Welcome to Spring, everyone! This has always been my favorite season—the promise of warmer weather and longer days, maybe more sun, and so much GREEN! I’m not great at gardening; I have a tendency to put things in the ground and leave them to fend for themselves. So I rely on perennials that are hardy enough to tough it out through anything. I have 2 beds now of Lily of the Valley that got their start from a great aunt’s garden in Detroit. Those are starting to poke their leaves up already. I also have a bed of daylilies right outside my home office window, sprouting up with the promise of a riot of orange later this summer. And the leaves on my lilac bushes are open!

On the other hand, there’s the mud. I’m not so keen on that aspect of the April showers. My horses are so covered in it you almost can’t tell what color they actually are. And since it’s not quite warm enough to rely entirely on pasture to feed them, it means slogging out into the not-so-dry lot to put out hay. Oh, and there’s the enormous potholes brought on by the freeze-thaw cycles that also herald spring. Living on a dirt road, my car is always as covered in dirt as my horses.

Just like the seasons bringing both good and bad, the cycles of our jobs do the same. And like the hardy perennials I plant, clerks survive those cycles pretty well, too. We make sure the meeting notices are posted and later the minutes are, too. We get the satisfaction of sending the last of the AV ballots to the post office, as well as the tedium of accuracy testing. Then there’s the relief when you find out you don’t have a May election so that you can focus on other projects that got set aside when you were working on the November one. Maybe you’ll get to feel the weird joy of being able to shred some old documents that have gotten to the end of their retention period. (Or is that just me?) There could be time to work on a grant application for something new that your community needs. Or the excitement of registering for the MAMC Summer Conference. Maybe you can even tackle updating your emergency plans, so you’re ready for all the crazy weather we seem to get nowadays.

Many of these examples remind me that what life really comes down to, in every season, is community. Clerks tend to be the backbone of their communities—the ones people look to for information, answers, and support. In turn, MAMC is the community that supports us clerks. While we crave the learning opportunities MAMC offers, I think it’s the chance to spend time among our fellow clerks that really draws us all to the MAMC events. We get to laugh with clerk friends that we might only get to see in person a few times a year. We get to share the ups and downs, the ‘eye-roll’ stories from the office and the great ways we find to do our jobs better.

So when something happens and maybe you need a hand, don’t forget to reach out to your clerk community within MAMC. We’re always ready to clap for you or to support you. Whether you have a specific mentor or look to the FB group ‘hive mind,’ email someone across the state or make a phone call to the clerk in a neighboring municipality; whether you need advice on a project or an emergency supply of nominating petitions because everyone in town has suddenly decided to run for local offices and you haven’t had a reason to order any since the last time the state updated the forms. (Or, again, is that just me?) Your community of fellow clerks has got your back.

Finally, I’d like to ask this community to be as patient, kind, and welcoming to Michael Siegrist when he takes over the mantle as President of MAMC in June as you’ve been to me this past year. I expected the job to be challenging and to push me out of my comfort zone in many ways. I did not expect to enjoy the attention that being head of an organization can bring. But I’ve loved having members introduce themselves and ask questions (even if I ended up pointing them to someone else for the answer.) I’ve loved participating in panels and workshops that I might not have been invited to but for being MAMC President. And I’ve loved simply basking in the warmth of a crowd of clerks at all of our events, knowing that in my small way I’m helping to keep this community thriving. So, Happy Spring! Enjoy Summer Conference if you’re able to attend! And enjoy weathering the ups and downs of clerk life with the MAMC community!

PS. If anyone would like some of the Lilies of the Valley for your own garden, just let me know! I’d be happy to dig some up and bring pots full to Conference for you!

Lisa Lawitzke, MiPMC2/CMC
President, MAMC

MAMC Board of Directors Election – Summer Conference & Proxy Voting

The Summer Conference is almost here, and the MAMC Board Election is just around the corner. Election Day will take place Thursday during the Conference.

We hope to see you there, but if you’re unable to attend, you can still participate by designating a proxy to cast your ballot. Watch your email for details on the two-step proxy voting process.

As election administration professionals, we know participation matters. Let’s lead by example, support the process, and cast your ballot.

Melanie Ryska, MiPMC/CMC
Immediate Past President

We’re looking forward to our Summer Conference, taking place June 15–19 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo.

The week begins with our pre-conference Clerking 101 Bootcamp on Monday, June 15, and Tuesday, June 16. This comprehensive two-day session provides a practical, step-by-step look at daily responsibilities of a municipal clerk. Led by experienced clerks, the program offers real-world insight into the role.

Topics for Clerking 101 include agendas and minutes, governing laws and ordinances, parliamentary procedure, accounting and budgeting, ethics and codes of conduct, the Open Meetings Act, the Freedom of Information Act, and elections. New clerks will find this session invaluable.

A pre-conference Master Class will also be offered on Tuesday, June 16. Speaker Heidi Frye will present “Stepping Into Your Power”.  This experience creates intentional space to pause, reconnect with your core self, and gain new perspective on how you lead and show up each day.  Along the way, you will learn about leadership, yourself, and through new skills and practices that strengthen how you communicate, you’ll learn new ways to navigate challenges, and lead with greater presence.

The Annual Conference officially begins on Wednesday, June 17, with keynote speaker Heidi Frye giving the keynote address “The Light Switch”.  The message is about ‘switching’ your light from the less-healthy outside-yourself version of leadership to a healthier inner core-centered version of leadership called authenticity.

On Thursday, attendees can choose from 12 breakout sessions covering a wide range of timely topics, including election contingency management, pre-election testing and election security, the Address Confidentiality Program, emergency guidance for election day, surviving burnout, election closing procedures, records management, FOIA, Open Meetings Act, crisis intervention training, Civilian Response to Active Shooter Event (CRASE) Training, and a village clerk roundtable discussion.

Perhaps most importantly, the conference offers a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow clerks - the people who truly understand the work we do every day.

Rachelle Enbody, MiPMC2/CMC
Chair, Education

Joe Riker, MiPMC/CMC
Vice Chair, Education

Join Us for the 26th Annual MAMC Summer Conference-

Happy Birthday America, Clerks Taking Flight!
June 15–19, 2026 | Kalamazoo Radisson

MAMC looks forward to celebrating a wonderful week of clerking with you at the 26th Annual Summer Conference. This year, we honor 250 years of American democracy while showcasing the unique attractions of Kalamazoo—including the renowned AirZoo Aerospace & Science Center.

With our “Clerks Taking Flight” theme and a birthday celebration for our nation, this conference promises memorable moments that celebrate both MAMC’s legacy and the essential role of clerks across Michigan. Whether you’re attending for the first time or are a longtime member, there’s something here for everyone.

Attendees can expect valuable networking opportunities, engaging educational sessions, and a chance to recognize the important work clerks do every day. The conference will feature MiExcellence Awards, breakout sessions with expert speakers, a Vendor Showcase, and a lively silent auction.

Thursday offers a full day of breakout sessions, vendor networking, and the President’s Dinner—highlighted by the prestigious Clerk of the Year Award and the President’s Recognition Ceremony. The evening concludes with entertainment and a cash bar.

On Friday, we wrap up the week with the Annual MAMC Membership Meeting, along with a legislative update and discussion with the Bureau of Elections. It’s the perfect way to close out a week filled with learning, connection, and celebration.

We hope you’ll join us for an engaging and inspiring week with clerks from across the great state of Michigan

Registration & Hotel:

Don’t wait to register today!  Registration ends May 15, 2026 with a late registration deadline of May 22^nd with additional fees.

Registration details can be found at 2026 Annual Conference.

MAMC has a room block set up at The Kalamazoo Radisson, but don’t wait to sign up as rooms are filling up fast!

MAMC has set up a block of rooms at the Hilton Garden, located at 303 N. Rose St., Kalamazoo. The rate for a standard room is $179 per night.

Get ready for a dynamic lineup of events and activities:

• Welcome Reception: Kick off the conference with a warm gathering to reconnect with colleagues.
• 5K Run/Walk: Start your day with a refreshing burst of energy along Kalamazoo’s downtown sidewalks.
• Education Sessions: The heart of the conference, featuring workshops, carefully curated speakers, and training tailored to equip you with the tools to excel.
• Silent Auction: Bid on unique items while supporting MAMC initiatives.
• Vendor Booths: Discover the latest tools and services to enhance your municipal operations.
• President’s/Clerk of the Year Dinner: Celebrate in style with an elegant evening honoring MAMC’s members.

Let’s make the Annual MAMC Summer Conference a celebration to remember. We look forward to seeing you in Kalamazoo!

Holly Thompson, MiPMC3/MMC
Chair, Conference

Sarah Stoltzfus, MiPMC
Vice Chair, Conference

MAMC Legislative Update – Spring 2026

The MAMC Legislative Committee continues to actively monitor a wide range of election-related legislation moving through the Michigan Legislature. Several key themes have emerged, with notable activity in election administration, voter requirements, and election scheduling.

Term of Office Package Moving Forward

A priority for the Committee is the “Term of Office” bill package (HB 4357–4358, HB 4698–4699, and SB 240–243). These bills would standardize that terms for local offices begin no earlier than the first day of the month following an election—typically December 1. Importantly, communities that have established January 1 start dates would not be impacted. The Committee is advocating for movement on this package this spring.

Primary Election Date Change

Legislation to move Michigan’s statewide primary from August to May (SB 691–696) has passed the Senate with bipartisan support and is now under consideration in the House. While there is broad agreement on the May primary, debate continues over the inclusion of a February election date. MAMC has expressed support for the May shift while raising concerns about the February option.

Election Administration & Clerk Support

Legislation such as HB 5717 and SB 833 would allow townships to contract with accredited individuals to administer elections in the absence of a clerk or deputy clerk. These bills aim to formalize existing practices and ensure continuity in election administration, while discussions with stakeholders continue regarding scope and implementation.

Millage and Special Election Changes

A package of bills (HB 4583, HB 4584, and HB 5032), which has passed the House, would limit most millage elections to even-year November ballots and restrict the use of school aid funds for special elections. These proposals may conflict with other legislation introducing additional election dates and will be closely watched as they move forward.

Voter Registration & Identification Requirements

Multiple bills propose changes related to voter eligibility and identification, including requirements for proof of U.S. citizenship and updates to voter registration instructions (e.g., HJR B, HB 4463, HB 4765). These proposals remain under active consideration.

Voting Equipment & Election Security

Legislation addressing voting equipment standards (HB 4602, HB 4720, SB 468) and prohibiting foreign influence in election funding (HB 5197–5198) continues to advance. These bills focus on security, transparency, and control over election infrastructure.

Petitions & Campaign Regulations

Several bills (HB 4560, SB 529–531, SB 698) propose changes to petition processes, including signature timelines, circulator compensation, and campaign finance reporting requirements.

Precinct Consolidation Efforts

The Committee is working closely with legislators on SB 820, which would allow precinct consolidation (up to 15,000 voters) for local elections. Progress has been made through stakeholder collaboration, and further action is anticipated this spring.

Amicus Brief Filed in Court of Appeals Case

In addition to legislative activity, MAMC is actively engaged in ongoing litigation impacting election administration. The Executive Board recently submitted an amicus brief in the case Republican National Committee, Michigan Republican Party and Cindy Berry v. Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State, and Jonathan Brater, Director of Elections, currently before the Michigan Court of Appeals.

The brief supports the Secretary of State’s appeal and raises significant concerns about a lower court ruling that would alter absentee ballot processing procedures. Specifically, the ruling would prohibit the use of the challenged ballot process in the Absent Voter Counting Board (AVCB) when ballot stub numbers do not match envelope numbers. Instead, such ballots would be rejected and returned to the clerk’s office, where voters could request new ballots after Election Day. The decision also contemplates requiring clerks to issue post-election ballots using ballot-on-demand systems within their offices.

MAMC is closely monitoring this case due to its potential operational and administrative impacts on clerks statewide. The Association appreciates the leadership of Vice President Michael Siegrist and the legal support provided by Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith in advancing this effort.

Ballot Proposal Activity

The Committee is also tracking several statewide ballot initiatives, including efforts related to proof of citizenship, tax proposals, and election reforms. Signature collection and validation timelines will be key in determining which proposals advance.

Ongoing Engagement

MAMC continues to engage with legislators on key topics such as election equipment funding and testing procedures, while maintaining open lines of communication to ensure the practical impacts on clerks and election administrators are understood.

Jody Hansen, MiPMC/CMC
Chair, Legislative

MiPMC Advanced Certification: Points FAQ’s

What Counts for Points?

Points toward the MiPMC Advanced Certification can be earned in several ways, all focused on professional development and involvement within the clerk profession. The following activities are eligible for points:

• Participation in MAMC conferences, Education Day, Clerk Bootcamp, and Master Academy.
• Teaching or speaking at an event associated with the clerk profession.
• Serving as an officer of an association related to the clerk profession.
• Engaging in miscellaneous coursework relevant to the field.

What Is Considered Miscellaneous Coursework?

Miscellaneous coursework includes classes completed through pre-qualified programs such as B.O.E., MTA, and MML. Additionally, coursework that is not pre-qualified may be reviewed if relevant to the clerk profession and well documented. For Level 2 certification, a maximum of six (6) points may be earned from miscellaneous coursework. For Level 3 and higher certifications, up to twenty (20) points can be applied.

What Does Not Count as Points?

Job-related activities are not eligible for points toward certification. Examples include attending municipal meetings or serving as a passport agent. The MiPMC program does not award points for work experience; only qualifying educational and professional development activities count toward your certification.

How Should I Track My Certification Points?

To assist you in monitoring your progress toward advanced certification, the application includes a chart designed for tracking earned points. It is recommended that you review your progress on a regular basis to ensure that points are applied as you earn them. This proactive approach helps maintain accurate records and prevents any missed opportunities for advancement.

Please note that points accumulated before your most recent certification date will not be counted toward subsequent certification levels. Each time you seek advancement, only points earned after your last certification are eligible. Additionally, you may apply for only one certification level at a time, which encourages a focused and organized approach to your professional development.

Mission of MiPMC Advanced Certification

The MiPMC Advanced Certification program is dedicated to enhancing the clerk profession throughout Michigan. Its mission is to encourage ongoing professional development by supporting clerks in participating in valuable educational opportunities and by fostering meaningful engagement with professional associations. The program prioritizes building strong networks and connections among clerks statewide, recognizing that these relationships contribute to the growth and success of the profession as a whole.

Importantly, the program emphasizes that the true worth of certification lies not in how quickly one progresses, but in the depth and quality of learning, service, and professional participation achieved during the journey. Clerks are encouraged to focus on continuous improvement and active involvement, with the understanding that these efforts lead to lasting professional advancement and a stronger community of clerks across Michigan.

Tina Porzondek, MiPMC2, CMC
Director, Membership/MiPMC/Mentor Program

The MAMC Clerk of the Year program is designed to recognize Michigan clerks who exemplify the professional and personal qualities that define the very best of our profession: dedication to public service, excellence in their role, and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Voting is now underway for the 2026 awards, and SurveyMonkey ballots were distributed via email in mid-March. Each MAMC member may cast one vote and must do so prior to 5 p.m. on May 5.

If you have not yet voted, you may use the original email sent to you. Members who have not responded should also expect a reminder email in the coming days. If you did not receive the original ballot — possibly due to your specific settings related to spam or quarantine, and blocked senders, or due to SurveyMonkey emails being specifically blocked by your email — please reach out directly to info@michiganclerks.org for assistance. Again, votes will only be honored if they are submitted through SurveyMonkey prior to 5 p.m. on May 5.

The winner in each category will be announced and honored at the MAMC Annual Conference on June 18, 2026, in Kalamazoo.

2026 City Clerk of the Year Finalists

• Brenda Bourdon – City of Whitehall
• Jill Domingo – City of Albion
• Kalla Langston-Weiss – City of Buchanan
• Annette Sturdy – City of St. Clair

2026 Township Clerk of the Year Finalists

• Pauline Bennett – Addison Township
• Carolyn Brokob – Watertown Township
• Cari Neubeck – Independence Township
• Adam Wit – Harrison Township

2026 Village Clerk of the Year Finalists

• Becky Austin – Village of Vermontville
• Whitney Harbowy – Village of Brooklyn
• Brittany Rathbun – Village of Lawton

2026 Deputy Clerk of the Year Finalists

• Katie Baker – Canton Township
• Sara El-Rifaai – City of Taylor
• Mara Maher – City of Ironwood

Kyle Whitney, MiPMC2
Director - Ways & Means