Local elected officials face many challenges and problems as they attempt to fulfill their responsibilities. Kent State University's Elected Officials Program, based on a course of study developed by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), offers suggestions on how to be more effective in many areas. It serves as a basic orientation for both newly elected and experienced elected officials on how local governments face key issues and set policy.

The program is typically held biennially in even years during the spring semester. Consisting of ten weekly evening class sessions, divided into two five-week sections, the program explores procedures and group processes, such as team building, goal setting and streamlining meetings. The goal is to provide a better understanding of how councils can work together in a more effective manner. The program also deals with substantive issues, such as public officials' liability, labor-management relations, and budgeting. And last but not least, the program focuses on you. What's changed about you since your election? More hassles? More stress? Less time? This program offers ideas on how to manage these issues and shares experiences of other local officials that might be similar to yours. It examines things you can do to become a more effective communicator, a better manager, a more informed official, and, we hope, a winner in your next election.

Who Should Attend: The Elected Officials Program is designed for both newly elected and experienced municipal elected officials. Elected officials from other jurisdictions, such as counties or townships, are also welcome as many of the topics pertain to their responsibilities as well.

Program Features and Topics: Guests from the public, private and academic sectors will speak to each class on topics including: Administrative Law, Streamlining Meetings, Budgeting and Finance, Policy Making, Team Building, Ethics, Economic Development, Labor-Management Relations, Personal Communication and Time Management.

Dates, Times, and Location: The class focusing on personal leadership will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays from February 12 to March 11; the class focusing on policy leadership will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays from March 25 to April 22. Classes will be held on the Kent State University Campus. For more information please call (330) 672-7148.

Credits and Costs: The program is offered on a noncredit basis for which 2.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) may be earned. The cost for attending one session is $295 per person; for three or more persons from the same organization or for KSU Alumni, $275.

Registration Information: Contact The College of Continuing Studies, 204 Michael Schwartz Center, Kent State University, Kent OH, (330) 672-3100 or (800) 672-KSU2.