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
8:30–9:00 a.m.
Greenhouse Session • Presented by Power Temp Systems
9:15–9:45 a.m.
Greenhouse Session • Presented by Aqualia – Municipal District Services
9:15–10:30 a.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Navigating Capitol Hill and the Impact of Federal Policy Changes on Cities
Session courtesy of the Texas Association of Black City Council Members
In a candid conversation led by Congressman Marc Veasey (D–Fort Worth), participants will gain insight into recent and proposed changes affecting Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding, HUD funding, and the personal and economic impacts of tariffs. This session emphasizes the importance of collective action and local leadership in advocating for city-driven policy solutions, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring cities remain at the forefront of shaping decisions that directly affect their communities.
G – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for governance.
Marc Veasey, United States Representative
How Doing the Math Can Make the Case for a More Productive City
In the battle for community growth, we all come up against some common counterarguments: “But people like driving.” “Residents don’t want to have to park two blocks away from their destination.” “The suburbs exist because everyone prefers to live that way.” How do you deal with those arguments? With math. Joe Minicozzi will walk through the math behind endless highways, subdivisions, and big-box stores —and why it doesn’t pencil out. Then he’ll talk through how to use that math in your discussions with local leaders to advocate for more resilient decisions.
F – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for finance.
Joe Minicozzi, Principal, Urban3
Every Coach Needs a Quarterback
Session courtesy of the Texas City Management Association
This session explores how effective mayor–council and city manager teams turn policy and vision into real-world results, highlighting the enduring strengths of the council–manager form of government while addressing today’s challenges, including polarization, limited resources, and rising public expectations. In celebration of TCMA’s 2026 Centennial, paired mayors and city managers will share real-world experiences and lessons learned, offering practical insights into defining roles, building trust, and strengthening the path from decision to implementation – all to enhance quality of life in their communities.
G – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for governance.
Claire Powell, City Manager, and T.J. Gilmore, Mayor, City of Lewisville; and Gina Nash, City Manager, and Jeff Bickerstaff, Mayor, City of Sachse
Nuisance Abatement and Code Enforcement for Small Cities
Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council
Nuisance abatement and code enforcement play a vital role in enhancing neighborhoods, supporting economic development, and reducing public safety risks. Through real-world before-and-after examples, this session will showcase practical approaches to encouraging voluntary compliance and outline the legal tools available when further action is necessary.
Karen Evans, Assistant City Manager/CFO, and Bill Hunt, Building Inspector/Code Enforcement, City of Bellmead
The AI Augmented Workforce: Upskilling Municipal Staff for the 2027 Landscape
Session courtesy of the Texas Association of Governmental Information Technology Managers
As AI moves from pilot projects to daily operations, how can your city stay competitive without losing the human touch that residents expect? This forward-looking session shows how an “AI-augmented workforce” can boost efficiency, preserve institutional knowledge, and strengthen service delivery. Hear how Texas cities are upskilling staff, improving retention, and using AI as a force multiplier – not a replacement. You’ll leave with practical strategies to plan for 2027, communicate AI investments, and lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Chris Lee, CIO, City of Lewisville; Melissa Kraft, CIO, City of Frisco; Keshnel Penny, CIO, City of Grand Prairie; Scott Joyce, Director of IT, City of Euless; and Omar Rodriguez, CIO, City of McKinney
Customer Care and Citizen Service: Know Yourself to Serve the Customer
Session courtesy of the Texas Municipal Utilities Association
Our mood and emotions shape how we interact with residents and deliver customer service. By understanding what drives us as public servants—and what residents need in the moment—we can communicate more effectively and respond with professionalism. This fun and interactive talk will explore practical ways to manage our own heightened emotions, de-escalate tense situations, and meet customers where they are.
Lance McAvoy, Director of Water Resources, City of Fort Smith
10:00–10:30 a.m.
Greenhouse Session • Presented by Asphalt Zipper, Inc.
10:15–10:45 a.m.
Refreshment Break • Sponsored by Hilltop Securities Inc.
10:45–11:15 a.m.
Greenhouse Session • Presented by HdL Companies
10:45–11:55 a.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Making Texas Count: Texas Demographic Trends and the Road to 2030
After the 2020 Decennial Census, the Census Bureau reported that Texas was one of six states in the United States that had an undercount of its population. Inaccurate population data could result in a loss of billions of dollars in federal funding to local governments throughout the decade. This session will highlight the most recent demographic trends in Texas and inform local leaders about how to enhance local data and ensure the most accurate population count for the 2030 Decennial Census.
F – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for finance.
Helen You, PhD, Interim Director, and Monica Cruz, PhD, State Data Center Lead, Texas Demographic Center
Hotels and Your Community: Attracting Great Hotel Operators, Addressing Bad Hotel Operators, and the Realities About Extended Stay Hotels
From the largest to the smallest cities, it is vital to have lodging options that effectively and appropriately accommodate short-term and long-term guests in your community. This session will cover key strategies for attracting great hotel operators to your city, how to address substandard hotel facilities, and the realities about the fastest growing lodging sector, Extended Stay Hotels.
Scott Joslove, President and CEO, Texas Hotel and Lodging Association; and Greg Juceam, President and CEO, Extended Stay America
Facing a Disaster Head On: Taking Control, Managing Media, and Navigating the Aftermath and Recovery
Session courtesy of the Texas City Management Association
Join Kerrville’s team as they share firsthand leadership experiences and lessons learned one year after the July 4th Flood in Kerrville. This session will explore the realities of crisis management, communicating under pressure, working with the media, leading through uncertainty, and guiding a community through recovery and resilience. Attendees will gain practical insight into emergency leadership, public communication, and the long-term impact disasters have on organizations and communities.
Hiring Your First City Manager: Eight Years Later
Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council
In this session, learn how the City of Hallsville’s experience hiring its first city manager has evolved over eight years, and take away practical lessons to support effective leadership and long-term success.
Jesse Casey, Mayor; Guy Walker, Mayor Pro Tem; and Charlie Hunt, Councilmember, City of Hallsville
Development in the ETJ: Challenges and Opportunities
Session courtesy of the Association of Hispanic Municipal Officials
This session will explore the issues that arise with development in a municipality’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and discuss the tools available to cities to work collaboratively with developers, especially in the context of 2023 legislation allowing for a unilateral right for property owners to withdraw from the ETJ.
Rob Killen, Attorney, Killen, Griffin & Farrimond, PLLC
Texas Law Enforcement Accreditation: Achieving the Gold Standard
Session courtesy of the Texas Police Chiefs Association
Want to elevate your police department to the “Gold Standard” in Texas? This session breaks down the Texas Law Enforcement Accreditation Program and shows city officials how achieving accreditation can strengthen operations, reduce risk, and build public trust. You’ll get practical insights into the proven Best Practices developed by Texas law enforcement professionals, learn why more than 230 agencies have already earned accreditation, and see how the program is tailored specifically for Texas—making it more accessible and cost-effective than national models.
Kevin Lunsford, Chief (Ret), Director of Accreditation and Training, and Scott Rubin, Chief (Ret), Assistant Director, Texas Police Chiefs Association
Noon–1:30 p.m.
Lunch and Keynote Speaker (separate ticketed event)
Perfectly You: Leveraging the Power Within
Mariana Atencio, Peabody Award-Winning Journalist
Everywhere we look, the world pressures us to perform, conform, and be perfect – often at the expense of being true to ourselves. But the truth is, when we show up authentically, we become magnetic and unlock greater resilience, confidence, and purpose. Authenticity not only helps us navigate change and uncertainty. It attracts opportunities and relationships that align with who we really are.
Mariana Atencio’s unique energy and interactive dynamics give people permission to drop the masks and discover the bold power of being “Perfectly You.” Through inspiring stories and practical takeaways, you will learn how to embrace what makes you irreplaceable and tap into authenticity as a source of strength and well-being to give your best at work and in life. You will leave energized, empowered, and ready to stand out – not by trying to be perfect, but by having the courage to be real.
Read Mariana Atencio’s biography here.
1:30–2:00 p.m.
Greenhouse Session Presented by Freese & Nichols
1:45–3:00 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Labor and Employment Law Update: Ensure Your City Is in Compliance
In the rapidly shifting world of labor and employment law, staying compliant is one of the most critical challenges facing cities today. This interactive session provides a comprehensive update on recent changes in federal and state laws and rules—including vital updates to the ADA, FMLA, and FLSA—that directly impact cities as employers. Through real-world scenarios and practical insights, you will leave equipped to audit your current practices, mitigate legal risks, and confidently maintain compliance across your organization.
Amber McKeon-Mueller, Director of Legal Services, and Stephanie Huser, Legal Counsel, Texas Municipal League
After the Deluge: Building Flood Resilience in Central Texas Communities
Session courtesy of the Texas Chapter of American Public Works Association
When devastating floods hit Central Texas in summer 2025, cities were pushed to their limits – now hear what worked, what didn’t, and what’s changing. Public works leaders from Austin, Kerrville, and Converse share real-world lessons from major storm events, including overwhelmed drainage systems, emergency coordination challenges, and long-term recovery efforts. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen infrastructure, improve flood preparedness, and plan for resilient recovery in your own community.
Jorge Morales, P.E., CFM, Director, Watershed Protection Department, City of Austin; and Anthony Chukwudolu, P.E., Deputy Director, Public Works, City of San Antonio
Tools to Address Vacant Downtown Buildings: Strategies for Activation and Revitalization
Session courtesy of the Small Cities Advisory Council
Vacant downtown buildings are a common challenge for many communities, but there are practical, proven tools to help address them, including TIRZ, Chapter 380 agreements, Main Street resources, EDC partnerships, and creative funding strategies. This session will highlight real-world successes from the City of Borger, including innovative initiatives like the “Behind the Doors” video series that has helped spark interest, attract investment, and build momentum for downtown revitalization.
Garrett Spradling, City Manager; Nicole Chavez, Dome Civic and Convention Center and Main Street Coordinator; and Deidra Thomas, Public Engagement Coordinator, City of Borger
Why It Is Important to Set and Enforce Financial Policies
Session courtesy of the Government Finance Officers Association of Texas
Strong financial policies don’t just happen in the Finance Department—they’re a core leadership responsibility. This session highlights how elected officials and city leadership can work together to develop, adopt, and enforce sound financial policies that promote transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of public funds.
F – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for finance.
Blu Kostelich, CFO and Assistant City Manager, City of Waco; Cayce Lay Lamas, CPA, Director of Finance, Town of Westlake; and Martie Simpson, CPA, CGFO, Executive Director, Government Finance Officers Association of Texas
The Candidate Versus the Hiring Manager: A Look at Varying Perspectives
Session courtesy of the Texas Recreation and Park Society
The job interview process can vary widely depending on the organization vision, company culture, and role level—but there are several perspectives that shape how it’s experienced and evaluated. Join us as we take a glimpse into our experiences with the recruitment process through the lens of a candidate and a hiring manager.
Willette Middleton, Recreation Operations Supervisor, City of West University Place; and Stacie Anaya, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Lewisville
3:00–3:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break • Sponsored by Oncor
3:00 p.m.–Conclusion
TML Business Meeting
3:30–4:45 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Avoiding Impropriety: The Ethics Gameshow
This gameshow-style presentation will cover conflicts of interest, nepotism, and incompatible offices in a light-hearted, high-energy format with audience participation.
E – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for ethics.
Thomas Gwosdz, City Attorney, The Gwosdz Law Firm
Your “Worst” Resident: Navigating People in a Politicized World
If it feels like your “worst” resident is suddenly everywhere, you’re not imagining it. In today’s increasingly politicized environment, routine questions can quickly become contentious and emotions often run high. Through real-world examples, practical strategies, and a touch of humor, this session explores why public interactions have become more challenging and how city officials can respond with professionalism, clarity, and confidence. Attendees will gain useful tools for de-escalation, setting boundaries, and communicating effectively under pressure while learning they’re not alone in facing these increasingly common challenges.
Chris Astrella, MPA, President and Founder, Government Guru Speaking and Consulting
AI in Action: Practical Applications for Small Cities
Artificial intelligence is a practical tool that cities are using to improve efficiency, enhance service delivery, and strengthen community engagement. This session will explore real-world examples of how cities are leveraging AI to streamline operations, improve resident communications, and support data-driven decision-making without requiring significant financial or technical resources. Attendees will learn where AI can deliver immediate and measurable benefits, discover practical and cost-effective approaches to implementation, and gain a roadmap for introducing AI responsibly while maintaining transparency, building public trust, and aligning technology investments with community priorities.
Kevin Benson, Director of Application Development, VC3
How to Speed Up the Audit Process
The audit process doesn’t begin when the fiscal year ends – it starts with the systems and habits you put in place all year long. Join us for practical tips and proven strategies to stay audit-ready year-round, reduce last-minute stress, and help your city move through the audit process faster and more efficiently.
F – This session meets the TML CMO program core competency requirement for finance.
Martie Simpson, Assistant Director, Financial Services, Texas Municipal League; and Keith Dagen, Wrangler, Texas Municipal League
Keeping Your Police Department TCOLE Compliant: What Every Elected Official Should Know
Session courtesy of the TML Risk Pool
Recent legislative changes have expanded TCOLE’s oversight of Texas law enforcement agencies, making compliance a shared responsibility for local governments. This session provides elected officials and administrators with a practical overview of agency standards, the inspection process, key requirements under the Uvalde Strong Act, and the governing body’s role in supporting compliance. Learn how proactive leadership and oversight can help your community maintain a professional, accountable, and fully compliant law enforcement agency.
Gregory Stevens, Executive Director; and T.J. Vineyard, Deputy Chief, Compliance and Standards Division, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement