Managing a municipality in Massachusetts is both exciting and unique. Exciting because of the opportunities for making positive contributions and facilitating improvements; and unique because Massachusetts’ local governmental structure and its general laws are steeped in centuries old New England traditions, values and heritage. Thankfully, the Massachusetts Municipal Management Association offers various resources to assist managers, assistants, and others in meeting these challenges.
The MMMA operates under the guidance of an Executive Committee, which is comprised of a president, two vice presidents, a secretary/treasurer, four members-at-large and five district representatives. As a member, you can serve on any of the various MMMA program and policy committees, depending on your interest and expertise.
The MMMA maintains a continuing relationship with the International City Management Association (ICMA). Massachusetts was one of the first states to have a written contract outlining a relationship between the ICMA and MMMA; we are a state affiliate of ICMA. The relationship with ICMA has been strengthened in recent years by representation on the ICMA Executive Board by three of our members over the past dozen years, as well as hosting the ICMA conference in Boston in 1991. MMMA, in collaboration with state associations in the other New England states, will host the 99th Annual ICMA Conference in Boston from September 21-24, 2013.
All MMMA members must adhere to the MMMA Code of Ethics. If you are an ICMA member, their Code of Ethics applies to you.
Some of the many benefits of being a MMMA member are:
- Various professional development training opportunities, including an annual two-day spring conference (traditionally held the Thursday and Friday following Memorial Day) and November fall conference, typically featuring an ICMA University Workshop as the main educational program.
- Half-day workshops held at six monthly meetings held throughout the year usually consisting of an educational presentation and a panel of managers and administrators providing experienced-based perspective on the “nuts and bolts” topics of managing in today's complex environment, followed with ample networking opportunities.
- Access to the “Members Only” section of the MMMA website, which offers a variety of special tools, e-mail alerts, reference materials, informational resources, and the ability to exchange information with colleagues.
- Scholarship programs for members to attend MMMA meetings and the ICMA Annual Conference.
- Annual salary survey with detailed benefit information, now available on-line.
- Access to legal assistance with employment contract issues.
- Member-in-Transition Program and peer-to-peer guidance
- Member rate for all MMA publications.
- Social events & networking opportunities planned by the Member Services Committee of the MMMA.
- Form of Government Committee and speaker’s bureau, which is available to assist communities with charter and bylaw reviews, and provide feedback on town organization.
- Informational booth and workshops at the MMA Annual Meeting in Boston. The booth highlights professional management and how communities can benefit from hiring a professional administrator. Workshop topics vary from year to year, but typically provide information to assist selectmen and councilors better understand the value a professional administrator can provide. Recent topics include evaluating a town manager, goal-setting techniques, and the hiring process for a professional administrator.
Please contact MMA Senior Member Services Coordinator Denise Baker at 617-426-7272, ext.105 for more information on joining the MMMA.
