Text reading Effective Governance

Newly Elected Officials Workshops

2026 Schedule TBA 

Setting the stage for success: Empowering new municipal leaders

Stepping into the role of a municipal elected official is both an honor and a challenge. Transitioning from candidate to governing body can be daunting, filled with complexities one never anticipated. The Colorado Municipal League (CML) is here to help.

The Newly Elected Officials workshop is designed to ease this transition by equipping new leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to govern effectively. For city managers and clerks, this is a perfect opportunity to encourage new leaders to start their terms with clarity and confidence, even if they’ve yet to take the oath of office.

Building a Strong Foundation

The workshop provides a foundation of local government functions, laws, and resources, covering essential topics such as:

  • Understanding the structure and functions of local government
  • Defining the roles and responsibilities of elected officials
  • Navigating open meetings, ethics, and liability to ensure transparency and accountability 
  • Discovering leadership styles, fostering team collaboration, and resolving conflicts
  • Leveraging clerks as an invaluable resource for effective governance 
  • Accessing CML’s tools and support for municipal leaders

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of municipal governance and connections with peers across Colorado.

Why It Matters

The shift from citizen to public servant requires not only knowledge but a commitment to serving the community effectively. Every decision impacts residents, services, and community growth, making preparation essential. This workshop provides a unique opportunity for new leaders to ask questions, build confidence, and start their terms on solid footing.

Take the Next Step

Join us for the Newly Elected Officials workshop and start your term with the confidence and tools you need to succeed—because strong leaders build strong communities.

Stay tuned for details.