7:30-8:45 a.m.
TML Risk Pool Breakfast (separate ticketed event, no charge)
7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Attendee Registration
8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Exhibitor Registration
8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast – Sponsored by TXU Energy
| 9:15-9:45 a.m. Greenhouse Session Longer Lasting Road/Pothole Repairs for Less Than Half the Cost – Part 2: Smooth Roads = Happier Communities. Easier and More Affordable Than You Think | Come learn from a panel of Texas municipal road professionals how proven road repair processes and techniques are saving their municipalities up to 70 percent or more. Explore proven cost and time saving benefits of Full-Depth Reclamation. Compare basic, mechanical, and chemical road base stabilization methods. Discover how you too can easily achieve more durable, longer lasting road repairs. Part two will also be a quick-paced event where audience participation is not only allowed, but encouraged. We hope you’ll join us for both sessions. Presented by Asphalt Zipper, Inc. |
| 9:15-10:30 a.m. Concurrent Sessions | |
| AI Governance in Texas Cities: Balancing Innovation, Ethics, and Public Trust Session courtesy of the Texas Association of Governmental Information Technology Managers | As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into municipal operations – from predictive analytics and smart infrastructure to citizen engagement and internal efficiencies – cities are faced with a critical question: how do we embrace innovation responsibly without compromising our ethical obligations to the communities we serve? Panelists will discuss the challenges and operational implications of AI adoption, including data privacy, bias mitigation, regulatory alignment, and the importance of guiding principles. The conversation will also highlight the necessary steps for the development of AI governance and the role of leadership in fostering public trust. Whether your city is just beginning to explore AI or already implementing advanced tools, you’ll gain practical insights and forward-looking strategies to help shape responsible, resilient, and citizen-centered AI initiatives. Chris Lee, Chief Information Officer, City of Lewisville; Melissa Kraft, Chief Information Officer, City of Frisco; Keshnel Penny, Chief Information Officer, City of Grand Prairie, Scott Joyce, Director of IT, City of Euless (facilitating); Omar Rodriguez, Chief Information Officer, City of McKinney |
| Rebuilding the Public Trust: Strategies for Restoring Confidence in Government Session courtesy of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association, Inc. | Public trust in government has eroded in recent years, but it’s not too late to restore confidence and accountability. In this session, we will explore effective strategies for rebuilding the public’s trust, focusing on openness, communication, and community engagement. Learn how to strengthen relationships with citizens by embracing honesty, actively listening to their concerns, and ensuring that public resources are used responsibly. We will discuss how other cities are providing communication and education to foster transparency and rebuild trust. Join us to gain valuable tools for regaining and maintaining public trust in today’s complex political landscape. Alicia Richardson, City Secretary/Chief Compliance Officer, City of North Richland Hills; Mattie Parker, Mayor, City of Fort Worth; Vanessa Shrauner, City Manager, City of Rockport; and Sean Doerre, Public Information Officer, City of Fredericksburg |
| Effectively Engaging Your Community About the Texas Legislature | Thousands of bills are filed every session of the Texas Legislature that have dramatic impact on Texas cities. Tracking all these bills and sharing the impacts with local state legislators is important, but misses a critical part of advocacy. The reality is that legislators often will listen more to 20 resident phone calls than to the mayor or councilmember from their district. Effectively engaging your community about high-impact bills is essential in today’s environment. This session focuses on how the City of Georgetown has engaged their community to develop its legislative agenda, create resident advocates during the legislative session, and alert its community about important legislation. Josh Schroeder, Mayor; David Morgan, City Manager, and Leah Clark, Intergovernmental Relations Manager, City of Georgetown |
| Beyond the Aesthetics: Why Downtown Revitalization Is Economic Development | Downtowns are more than charming landmarks—they’re vital economic engines that reflect a community’s identity and potential and retain its talent. This session examines how strategic beautification and place-making serve as catalysts for revitalizing Texas downtowns through high-impact improvements that attract investment, support small businesses, and promote tourism. Attendees will learn from success stories across the state and discover how local governments of any size can activate underused spaces, foster community buy-in, and drive economic growth. The session also introduces the Texas Historical Commission’s new First Street Initiative and updates to the Texas Main Street Program, offering practical tools for communities of all sizes to launch or strengthen downtown revitalization efforts. Tania Moody, Executive Director, Texas Downtown; Shelly Ashcroft, Marketing and Membership Coordinator, Texas Downtown; Letecia McNatt, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Garland; and Meredith Johnson, Community Liaison, Texas Main Street Program |
| Small City Talks: Making City Hall More Efficient Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council | This issue-based roundtable discussion offers small city leaders (under 15,000 population) the opportunity to share best practices and participate in a dialogue on making city hall more efficient. You’ll exchange ideas, ask questions, and connect with other local leaders. There will be no speaker or formal presentation; our moderator will keep the conversation on course. Come ready to talk about your challenges and successes, learn from other city leaders, and take good notes. |
| 10:00-10:30 a.m. Greenhouse Session The Data Behind the Dollars: Planning for the Future | Municipal finance professionals are key to shaping a city’s fiscal future. This session explores how a deep understanding of sales tax data can inform long-term financial planning and policy. Attendees will learn to interpret revenue patterns and forecast realistic budgets. Real-world examples will highlight how data-driven decisions support resilient, forward-looking communities. Presented by HdL Companies |
10:15-10:45 a.m.
Refreshment Break – Sponsored by Hilltop Securities Inc.
| 10:45-11:15 a.m. Greenhouse Session Electrical Safety, Reliability, and Compliance. Meeting the Changes of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70B, and OSHA 70E (Repeat Session) | This session covers critical updates to NEC 70, NFPA 70B, NFPA 70E, NEC 700.3() and NFPA 110, now directly tied to OSHA standards. These changes close long-standing loopholes and apply retroactively, requiring all existing and future equipment to meet new compliance benchmarks. The updates carry significant liability for municipalities, facility operators, and contractors while demanding new approaches to staffing, inspections, and documentation. Local inspectors and OSHA are already enforcing these standards, making proactive compliance essential. This session provides practical insight into protecting public facilities, budgets, and personnel under this far-reaching code overhaul. Presented by Power Temp Systems |
| 10:45-11:55 a.m. Concurrent Sessions | |
| Implicit Bias and Workplace Equity Session courtesy of the Association of Hispanic Municipal Officials | How do unconscious attitudes shape the workplace—and what can be done to foster a more equitable environment? In this timely and thought-provoking session, attorney Clarissa M. Rodriguez will explore the subtle yet powerful ways implicit bias can influence decision-making, team dynamics, and leadership in municipal organizations. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to identify bias, build cultural awareness, and take practical steps toward creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces. Clarissa M. Rodriguez, Shareholder, Denton Navarro, Rodriguez, Bernal, Santee & Zech, P.C. |
| Building Community and Raising Families: The Foundation of a Thriving City Session courtesy of the Texas City Management Association | Portland City Council, named the 2025 TCMA City Council of the Year, invites you to a dynamic discussion on the guiding philosophy behind the City’s tagline: Building Community and Raising Families. This session will explore how understanding and promoting strong families and a connected community create the foundation for a thriving city. Portland leaders will share insights on their approach to policymaking, community engagement, and the innovative programs that have made the City a model for fostering family-friendly environments. Attendees will gain practical strategies for strengthening their communities, including prioritizing people-centered policies, encouraging civic pride, and creating sustainable growth that benefits all generations. Cathy Skurow, Mayor, John Green, Mayor Pro Tem, Bill Wilson II, Councilmember, and John Sutton, Councilmember, City of Portland |
| Building Trust and Community Engagement, Offline Session courtesy of Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers | In a world dominated by digital communication, meaningful face-to-face engagement remains one of the most effective ways to build trust between local governments and the communities we serve. This session will explore creative, proven approaches to offline civic engagement that foster transparency, connection, and long-term community partnerships. Participants will learn how cities like Bedford built a successful Citizens Academy to educate and empower residents, how Georgetown brings city departments directly to the public at community events, and how Richardson established a resident council that brings HOA and neighborhood association leaders together monthly to stay in the know about important community projects. Whether you’re launching a new program or refreshing your outreach approach, this session will offer practical insights and replicable models to help you connect with your community—no Wi-Fi required. Greg Sowell, Director of Communications, City of Richardson; Don Magner, City Manager, City of Richardson; Aly Van Dyke, Director of Communications and Public Engagement, City of Georgetown; and Molly Fox, Director of Communications, City of Bedford |
| People, Purpose, Presence: The Unsung Strength of Public Works in Texas Communities Session courtesy of the Texas Chapter of American Public Works Association | Public works professionals are often the quiet force behind a city’s success, serving with dedication and rarely in the spotlight. This session, inspired by the 2025 National Public Works Week theme “People, Purpose, Presence,” explores how Texas cities are meeting community needs through resilient infrastructure, innovative service delivery, and a skilled and committed workforce. Join public works leaders from across the state for a candid panel discussion on maximizing impact amidst financial constraints, investing in people, and strengthening community presence. Panelists will share real-world strategies in workforce development, emergency preparedness, GIS and asset management, and cross-department collaboration. Learn how public works is maintaining the backbone of your city and helping shape its future. Ronnie Bates, Director of Public Works, Denison; Jody Byerly, Director of Public Works, Carrollton; and Elvira Alonzo, CPM, Director of Public Works, McAllen |
| Value-Driven Collaboration with Your Police Chief Session courtesy of the Texas Police Chiefs Association | Police departments that fail to evolve get left behind. “Silo” leadership is often disconnected from trends, struggles to navigate challenges, and wastes precious time trying to reinvent the wheel. Practical tips to “slip the silo” will be explored. Networking, succession planning, professional development, best practices, and training opportunities can all lead to an engaged and modern approach to leadership inside your police department. The Texas Police Chiefs Association will provide actionable steps to assist in making your police department the best it can be in service to your community. Johnny Siemens, Chief, Universal City Police Department; Gene Ellis (ret), Executive Director. Texas Police Chiefs Association; Eddie Wilson, Chief, Copperas Cove Police Department |
| Small City Talks: Navigating Grants Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council | This issue-based roundtable discussion offers small city leaders (under 15,000 population) the opportunity to share best practices and participate in a dialogue on navigating grants and resources. You’ll exchange ideas, ask questions, and connect with other local leaders. There will be no speaker or formal presentation; our moderator will keep the conversation on course. Come ready to talk about your challenges and successes, learn from other city leaders, and take good notes. |
Noon–1:30 p.m. (separate ticketed event)
Luncheon and Keynote Speaker
From Leadership to Leadering: The Shift We Need for the Future We Want
Nancy Giordano, Futurist and Strategist
Join Nancy Giordano, renowned strategic futurist and leadership provocateur, for an inspiring presentation designed to reshape how city leaders champion progress in a rapidly evolving world. In this thought-provoking talk, Nancy will explore the core principles of leadering—an approach that transitions away from traditional leadership to cultivate resilience, creativity, and collaborative innovation in times of disruption.
Nancy will invite you as a community leader to rethink your role, emphasize adaptive leadership, and create environments where visionary, inclusive stewardship can flourish. This session will offer actionable insights on building agile, forward-thinking teams and strategies for leading with purpose in an interconnected world.
Whether you’re navigating complex municipal challenges, fostering community-driven growth, or driving sustainable change, this keynote will provide valuable tools and a fresh perspective to elevate and expand your approach in shaping the future of your city.
| 1:30-2:00 p.m. Greenhouse Session City in Sync: Unlocking the Power of Integrated Planning (Repeat Session) | As cities face growing pressures from population growth, funding challenges, and aging infrastructure, siloed planning is no longer sustainable. Integrated Planning offers a transformative approach that weaves together land use planning, transportation, water and wastewater, parks, stormwater, and capital planning into a cohesive, future-ready strategy. This session explores how Integrated Planning can break down departmental barriers to create more holistic, efficient, and smarter plans within your city. Discover how a new approach can broaden collaboration and ultimately create efficiencies to shape the cities of tomorrow. Presented by Freese and Nichols |
| 1:45-3:00 p.m. Concurrent Sessions | |
| Understanding Generational Talent Session courtesy of the Texas Municipal Utilities Association | As the workforce evolves, hiring qualified staff remains critical to achieving organizational objectives. Older workers, 55 and over, continue to play a significant role, while attracting younger generations is essential for workforce succession. This session will explore strategies for recruiting and integrating employees across generations, highlighting their strengths and addressing misconceptions. Learn how an inclusive, age-diverse workplace can drive organizational success and provide a competitive edge. Hector Mendoza, Director of Human Resources, and Chris Enriquez, Director of Public Works, City of Canyon |
| Battleground to Common Ground: Transforming Municipal Conflicts into Collaborative Solutions | Our world is filled with conflict and disputes that damage relationships and increase costs. In this session, we will explore practical steps we can use to navigate relationships in a political climate and discuss specific examples of when and how to deploy negotiation and conflict management techniques. Join this session with a former elected official who has more than 20 years of experience in litigation, arbitration, and mediation and cares deeply about serving others through resolving conflict. Adam McGough, Mediator and Arbitrator |
| Understanding Your Property Tax Rate Calculation Session courtesy of the Government Finance Officers Association of Texas | The tax property tax rate calculation presents several challenges for local governments that are not obvious or intuitive. Learn about the pitfalls, shortcomings, and opportunities the calculation presents so you can assist your city in understanding the tax rate process. F – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for finance. Susan Morgan, Former Chief Financial Officer, City of Round Rock, and John Zagurski, Chief Financial Officer, Flower Mound |
| Partnering for Protection: TML Risk Pool Helps Police Stay Ahead of Risk | Policing has many inherent risks, and not all of them are front page news. While departments must train on professional tactics for use of force and similar events, everyday risks like driving and mundane injuries need attention as well. The TML Risk Pool’s “Promoting Excellence in Law Enforcement” program now employs two dedicated law enforcement outreach consultants to provide no-cost visits and analysis for your police department. Their primary goal is to support law enforcement leaders in their efforts to reduce employee injuries, deaths, litigation risk, and property loss by better understanding claims data – this promotes informed decision-making that reduces risk and improves outcomes. They can also pair these services with training aimed at raising awareness and reducing self-induced risk in some of the most common areas of loss. Attendees will learn just how important this information is for their police department and their community. Chase Stapp (Retired San Marcos Police Chief) and Joseph Florance (Retired Rockwall Police Captain), Law Enforcement Outreach Consultants, TML Risk Pool |
| Small City Talks: Community Engagement Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council | This issue-based roundtable discussion offers small city leaders (under 15,000 population) the opportunity to share best practices and participate in a dialogue on community engagement. You’ll exchange ideas, ask questions, and connect with other local leaders. There will be no speaker or formal presentation; our moderator will keep the conversation on course. Come ready to talk about your challenges and successes, learn from other city leaders, and take good notes. |
| 2:15-2:45 p.m. Greenhouse Session Building Resiliently – What Municipal Officials Need to Know | As severe weather-related events intensify across Texas, the homebuilding industry faces challenges to create resilient, climate-responsive homes. This session introduces how the concept of Climate Responsive Design produces structures that are more resilient and enhance long-term value. Learn how smart site planning, informed design choices, and material selection can mitigate climate impacts and reduce costs—while ensuring homes remain safe, healthy, and adaptable to changing conditions. Presented by James Hardie Building Products, Inc. |
3:00-3:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break – Sponsored by Oncor
| 3:00-3:30 p.m. Greenhouse Session Texas Architectural Trends – What Residents in Your City Want | What does the average homeowner seeking to invest in your community want in a home from a design and architectural perspective? Home design and architecture changes from generation to generation. This session explores what today’s Texan homeowners want—from modern aesthetics and energy efficiency to cultural preservation. Learn how your communities can balance tradition with innovation, and how changing environmental conditions are influencing design choices across the state. Presented by James Hardie Building Products, Inc. |
3:30 p.m.-Conclusion
TML Business Meeting
| 3:30-4:45 p.m. Concurrent Sessions | |
| Whose Role Is It Anyway? | In this game-show-inspired session, City Attorney Thomas Gwosdz will discuss the laws, rules, and best practices for dividing up the work between the mayor, city council, the city manager, and city employees. Whose job is it to create the budget? To hire employees? What about finding a contractor to repair park equipment? Does your answer change in a state of disaster? Come prepared to participate or to cheer for your favorite contestant as we all learn “Whose role is it, anyway?” G – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for governance. Thomas Gwosdz, Managing Attorney, The Gwosdz Law Firm, PLLC |
| Public Stewardship: Leading Change for Public Value | Calls to “run government like a business” often miss the mark – government exists not to generate profit, but to deliver public value. Yet, alignment, accountability, and strategic clarity remain essential. This session explores how cities, large and small, are redesigning their strategy, structure, and budgeting to become more adaptive and responsive to evolving community needs. Through real-world examples from Kansas City, Golden Valley, and Lincoln, participants will gain a practical framework for leading change, shifting organizational mindsets from scarcity to abundance, and steering local government toward greater public impact. Micah Intermill, Founder and Managing Partner, GovStrategist, LLC |
| Texas Natives: The Programs, Policies, and Politics That Will Inspire Your Community to Embrace Its Texas Roots Session courtesy of the Texas Recreation and Park Society | Participants will leave with an understanding of how to embrace Texas Natives in public spaces, gain allies, overcome resistance, advocate for resilient communities, and empower residents to do the same. This program will guide you through one community’s journey to investing in critical infrastructure, such as parks and green space, to build resiliency and address water scarcity while representing the native beauty of Texas. TJ Gilmore, Mayor, and Stacie Anaya, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Lewisville |
| Ethics and Code of Conduct Policies for Small Cities Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council | This session will dive into the importance of adopting ethics and code of conduct policies for your city. Learn from the panel how their policies were adopted and have worked to improve government transparency and council-staff relations. Bert Miller, CMO, Mayor; Robert Hemminger, City Manager; and Cary Bovey, Legal Counsel, City of Navasota E- This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for ethics. |
| Small City Talks: Rural Water Issues Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council | This issue-based roundtable discussion offers small city leaders (under 15,000 population) the opportunity to share best practices and participate in a dialogue on rural water issues. You’ll exchange ideas, ask questions, and connect with other local leaders. There will be no speaker or formal presentation; our moderator will keep the conversation on course. Come ready to talk about your challenges and successes, learn from other city leaders, and take good notes. |