Elected Official Training: 'Council Academy' and 'Rules of Procedure' | Kannapolis, NC

This educational offering features two sessions. Information on each is below. 

A complimentary lunch will be provided between sessions at 12 p.m.

Rules of Procedure: Legal Basics for Municipal Governing Boards

Morning Session | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Every official action a municipal board takes must be legal, deliberate, and defensible. 

This essential training session will provide municipal leaders with a solid foundation in the legal rules and best practices for running effective board meetings. Local governments are governed by laws, procedures, and traditions—but when these are misunderstood or ignored, it can lead to confusion, delays, public frustration, or even legal challenges.

Rules of Procedure: Legal Basics for Municipal Governing Boards will help participants understand the mechanics of public meetings, the authority and responsibility of governing boards, and how to keep meetings running smoothly and within legal bounds. This course is ideal for mayors, council members, managers, clerks, and anyone involved in supporting or leading municipal meetings.

Key Learning Objectives

• Identify and apply seven fundamental legal principles that govern municipal board meetings

• Understand the respective roles of the presiding officer (mayor) and council members during meetings

• Summarize key statutes and local rules that guide board procedures

• Recognize and avoid common procedural pitfalls that hinder meetings or expose the board to risk

• Implement practical strategies and legal best practices to ensure meetings are effective, efficient, and compliant

Instructors:

• Tom Carruthers, Deputy General Counsel, NCLM

• Ben Mount, Senior Assistant General Counsel, NCLM

Additional Information:

• Participants will receive a Certificate of Completion

• This session provides two hours of credit toward the NCLM Advanced Municipal Leaders (AML) Certificate Program

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Council Academy: Fundamentals for Elected Office

Afternoon Session | 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Serving in elected office is a tremendous honor—but also a significant responsibility. Whether you’re newly elected or have years of experience, understanding the core functions and expectations of municipal leadership is key to making informed, effective decisions for your community.

Council Academy: Fundamentals for Elected Office is an engaging and practical training designed to help elected officials—both new and seasoned—navigate the day-to-day responsibilities of public service. The course provides a clear overview of how local government works, how to work effectively with fellow board members and staff, and how to lead with integrity and purpose.

This session offers valuable insight into the balance between policymaking and administration, and equips elected officials with tools to enhance collaboration, transparency, and trust in local government.

Agenda Topics Include:

• The fundamental roles and responsibilities of elected officials

• How to effectively create, review, and adopt municipal policies and procedures

• Basics of local government administration and staff relationships

• Working with your town manager, attorney, and clerk

• Best practices for communication, governance, and ethical leadership

Ideal for:

• Newly elected council members looking for a strong start

• Experienced officials seeking to sharpen their understanding and leadership approach

• Municipal staff who support or work closely with governing boards

Instructors:

• Vickie Miller, Director of Learning and Development, NCLM

Additional Information:

• Participants will receive a Certificate of Completion
• This session provides two hours of credit toward the NCLM Advanced Municipal Leaders (AML) Certificate Program