Christina (Tina) M. Gourley, Blanco City Councilmember, was in Austin, TX, August 8-9, 2008, to attend the Newly Elected City Officials’ Orientation. The meeting provided an opportunity for newly elected city officials to voluntarily enhance their knowledge of city government and sharpen their leadership skills. In addition, the orientation offered an opportunity to visit with elected officials across Texas to learn how other cities are coping with similar challenges.

During this event, attendees were offered sessions on topics such as open government, financial responsibilities, council / staff relations, ethical government, and media relations. A special presentation on “The Importance of Building a Sense of Community” was provided by Texas Municipal League’s (TML) Past President Dr. Gary McCaleb. Dr. McCaleb is the Vice President of the University and Executive Director of the Center for Building Community at Abilene Christian University.

Elected officials from all over the state attended the Newly Elected City Officials’ Orientation, which was sponsored by Texas Municipal League and the Association of Mayors, Councilmembers and Commissioners, an affiliate of the TML. The League is a voluntary association of more than 1,100 Texas Cities, including Blanco.

The continuing educational units (CEU) earned by Gourley help to provide evidence to the citizens of Blanco of her commitment to Blanco’s effective governance. Last year, Gourley earned 24 hours of CEUs in preparation of her CGAP exam for the professional designation as a Certified Governmental Auditing Professional.