| Township Focus This article, authored by attorney Laura Genovich, was featured as the cover story for the July 2024 edition of the Michigan Township Association's Township Focus publication. Fundamentally, the public elects local leaders to “come together to solve problems.” Constituents rely on their township officials to develop infrastructure, use tax dollars prudently and keep the public safe, among other important responsibilities. The public does not want local officials to be the problem that needs solving. A combative or divided township board can distract from the critical work of the township. Similarly, a board on which only one or two members actively participate in discussion, while others remain silent except to vote, can communicate a lack of commitment or engagement. Both types of board conduct can erode public trust. This article offers tips for increasing board engagement and cohesiveness and promoting effective and efficient township board meetings. These suggestions are helpful not only for township board meetings, but also meetings for other township boards, commissions and committees, including the planning commission, zoning board of appeals and more... 
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