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Essentials of Municipal Administration

  
Wednesday, March 04, 2026 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM   iCalendar Eastern Standard Time

Essentials of Municipal Administration

Participants must attend the entire 3-hour session to earn a course certificate.

This introductory course is designed for new and early-career municipal secretaries, administrators, and clerks who are seeking a strong foundation in the structure, responsibilities, and legal framework of Pennsylvania local government. Participants will explore the essential duties of municipal officials, review the governing codes and legal requirements, and learn how to effectively manage meetings, records, and communications.

Through interactive discussions, real-world examples, and practical guidance, learners will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate their roles with professionalism and accuracy. This course also introduces key concepts such as ordinances and resolutions, the Sunshine Act, and the Right to Know Law, ensuring participants are equipped to support transparent and compliant municipal operations.

Key Topics:

  • Structure & Authority of Pennsylvania Municipal Codes 
  • Roles & Responsibilities of Municipal Officials 
  • Legal vs. Implied Duties in Local Governance 
  • Ordinances & Resolutions 
  • Public Meetings
  • Effective Municipal Communication Practices 
  • Supporting Transparent & Compliant Operations
  • Records Management

Who should attend:

  • Municipal secretaries and administrators
  • Borough and township clerks
  • Newly appointed municipal staff and newly elected officials
  • Anyone seeking foundational knowledge of local government operations

By the end of this course, you can expect to be able to: 

  • Identify the structure and authority of Pennsylvania municipal codes and explain their relevance to local governance. 
  • Differentiate between the legal and implied duties of municipal officials and describe how each impacts daily operations. 
  • Explain the purpose and procedures for adopting ordinances and resolutions within a municipal framework. 
  • Demonstrate best practices for managing public meetings, including agenda preparation, recordkeeping, and ensuring transparency. 
  • Demonstrate understanding of records management policies through correct handling, storage, and documentation practices