The complicated world of compliance

One of the biggest concerns we face at the Utah Association of Special Districts (UASD) relates to local and special districts becoming and staying compliant. With so much updating and creating of new legislation, it can be tricky to digest all the information pertaining to the specific districts you run. This is where membership in the UASD becomes critical to the overall function and efficacy of your programs. In the past, special districts have garnered a bad name due to mismanagement and uneducated board members. We are working to change the face of special districts, to help districts stay informed and provide a unified voice in legislature. How exactly does UASD help special districts become and stay compliant? Let’s talk about some of the things membership offers:

• Board member training: Many of the mistakes that occur are due to lack of training. Special districts are largely comprised of rural areas where board members are comprised of everyday citizens, working hard to make a difference, but lack sufficient training. Membership includes training and training materials for board members.
• Legislative advocacy: Because special and local districts are smaller in number, membership will add your voice to the many others we serve. We take your concerns and values to congress, giving your voice power.
• Social media communications: Our social media presence brings light to critical issues and can keep district members informed of critical legislative issues.
• Website members-only section: Available only to our members, this section provides all the information needed to successfully manage local and special districts.
• Public relations assistance: Often, rural cities and counties need public relations assistance to work through tough community situations.
• Resource library: Valuable member and constituent information is packed into our resource library.
• Legal hotline: Ask any district-related questions on this dedicated line. Legal experts are available to counsel you on a wide range of topics.
• Bylaws and personnel manual templates: These will assist in the training of new and existing staff members and officials.
• Video resources for public education: Videos are often have a larger impact than a simple lecture series. Our professionally produced videos will offer teaching and learning materials in a fun and effective format.
• Pocket guides for Board Members and Legislators: Meant to serve as a quick reference guide to bylaws, legislation, governing boards, financing, public health and safety and general information on the UASD.
• Problem solving assistance: When it comes to puzzles, we’ve seen them all. Our team will work with you to find the solutions to complicated district problems. We will utilize every resource available.

The complicated world of laws and governance doesn’t have to be difficult or confusing. UASD works diligently to ensure this legal world is navigable for special and local districts. Members can also look forward to attending the UASD Annual Convention is on the calendar for November 6-8, 2019 at the Davis Conference Center located in Layton, Utah. This convention will offer specialized training sessions, in-depth conversation about crucial topics and fulfills the requirements necessary for compliance. What more could anyone want? We encourage all board members, management and staff members to attend this invaluable convention. Don’t let compliance on these difficult issues get in the way of providing the services your district needs. We do the difficult work for you, advocating for you through every step of the process. We have given special districts back the good name they rightfully deserve, kept money funneled through the proper channels and provided much needed support. Become a member today by calling (801) 614-0405.