We were proud to join township officials and professionals from across Illinois at this year’s ITAA Annual Educational Seminar, hosted by Hanover Township. The event brought together a strong lineup of legal and government professionals to share practical guidance and insight on the issues that matter most to township governance and community service delivery.
We extend our sincere thanks to Ross Secler, President of the Illinois Township Attorneys Association (ITAA) and Partner at Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath, Ltd., for his leadership and vision in coordinating this year’s program.
We are also deeply grateful to Brian P. McGuire, Supervisor of Hanover Township, and the entire Hanover Township team for hosting this meaningful event, and to Jerry Crabtree, Executive Director of the Township Officials of Illinois, for his ongoing commitment to supporting townships throughout the state.
Thank you to all who attended this Seminar.
We were honored to welcome Senator Laura Murphy, who opened the program with a legislative update and thoughtful remarks on the issues currently before the General Assembly. Senator Murphy continues to be a strong voice for public safety, transparency, and consumer protection. Her insights, grounded in both her state-level leadership and local government background, were a highlight of the day.
Program Highlights Included
The Township Playbook: Governance 101 for Officials and Staff
Ross Secler offered foundational principles of township governance and valuable election law guidance.
FOIA and OMA Updates
Leah Bartelt of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, on behalf of the Public Access Counselor, provided timely updates and clarified compliance responsibilities under open government laws.
Current Trends in Legal Ethics
Mary Andreoni of the ARDC addressed emerging issues in legal ethics relevant to township officials and attorneys.
Serving the Underserved
Mark Kimzey and Madilyn Kuperman of Airdo Werwas, LLC discussed the importance of township services like General Assistance programs and Mental Health Boards in meeting community needs.
Coverage Claims and Risk Management for Townships
Jim Donelan of TOIRMA led the Lunch and Learn session with practical advice for handling claims and minimizing risk.
Governance 102: Surviving Your First Few Months
Keri-Lyn Krafthefer and Kevin Sterk of Ancel Glink shared tools and strategies for new township officials stepping into their roles.
King of the Road: Duties and Responsibilities of Highway Commissioners
James Kelly of Franks, Kelly, Matuszewich and Andrle, P.C. explored the unique legal and operational responsibilities of road district leadership.
Employment Law and the Trump Administration
James Jansen and Anthony Pasquini of Airdo Werwas, LLC reviewed recent legal developments and their implications for township employers.
Legal Hot Topics Q and A
Judge Michael J. Chmiel moderated a lively and thoughtful discussion on legal and operational questions facing townships today.
Special Thanks To
Hanover Township for hosting
Mark J. Kimzey, Seminar Director
Mollie Nolan Werwas, Program Moderator
Michael Airdo, ITAA Treasurer, for his continued leadership
All the presenters for generously sharing their time and perspectives
We are thankful to be part of such a committed township community and look forward to continuing these conversations and supporting township leaders throughout Illinois.