What does a Trustee do for a Township?
What Does a Township Trustee Do? A Reflection on Local Government
As the New Year begins and I continue my role as one of your four Township Trustees, I thought it would be a good time to revisit one of my first blog posts from last February. This post explored the vital role of Township Trustees—a position that often works behind the scenes to ensure our community runs smoothly.
A Trustee’s Term
A term for a Township Trustee lasts four years, aligning with the presidential election cycle. While many may not fully understand the role of Trustees, their work is crucial to maintaining a thriving and well-managed township.
Why Trustees Matter
Trustees act as planners, envisioning the township's future and addressing its needs. They tackle problems, identify growth opportunities, and help shape the community through thoughtful planning and collaboration.
The Responsibilities of a Trustee
Decision-Making: Trustees vote on policies, ordinances, and other issues that directly affect residents. These decisions help set the direction for the township’s development and governance.
Financial Oversight: Trustees manage budgets, allocate resources, and ensure taxpayer money is used responsibly. Sound financial management is at the core of a Trustee’s duties.
Multitasking: Beyond governance, Trustees often juggle a variety of responsibilities, from organizing events to addressing resident concerns, making them a key resource for all township matters.
Mastering Skills: Trustees need a diverse skill set, including knowledge of township laws, government operations, and budgeting. They must also be skilled communicators, problem solvers, and consensus builders.
Guardians of Good Governance: Trustees uphold the principles of responsible governance, ensuring policies are followed, funds are spent wisely, and ordinances are lawfully enforced.
Learning and Growing in the Role
Over the past 10 months as a Trustee, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and nuances of this role. With every meeting and interaction with fellow Trustees and other elected officials, I learn something new. My goal is to continually grow, serve, and support our amazing community to the best of my ability.
Thank you for your trust and support in this journey—it’s an honor to serve you!
