Administrative Summit - 2024

SESSION 01    ---------------------------------

Enhancing Workplace Success Through Effective Policies

SPEAKER: Ashley Adams - Career Management Associates (CMA)

In this interactive session, we’ll explore the critical role workplace policies play in shaping organizational culture and operations. Whether your organization follows a formal handbook or takes a more flexible approach, we’ll examine the advantages and challenges of various policy structures. Participants will discuss the balance between detailed and flexible policies, the importance of clear communication, and the need for consistent enforcement. This program provides practical strategies to develop or refine policies that foster a safe, compliant, and productive work environment.

SESSION 02    ---------------------------------

Rates Rates Everyone, But Not a Penny Before You Think!

SPEAKER: Randi Taylor & Mike Payne - Greater Augusta Utility District

This course will focus on the concept of rate increases and will highlight some of the often-overlooked components of that process. The speakers will discuss how to successfully model your financial health so as to understand the needs of timing and adequately sizing your increase. They will discuss the best practices and requirements (for some utilities) of noticing such an increase, holding public meetings to solicit comments or concerns, and ultimately how to apply the rate increase to your bills in a manner that is consistent with the intent and language of the regulatory authorities. This will be an interactive session where attendees will be encouraged to share their questions, stories, and memories for the benefit of all other attendees. 

SESSION 03    ---------------------------------

Managing the Problem Employee

SPEAKERS: Peter Lowe - Brann & Isaacson 

Peter D. Lowe is a partner with the law firm of Brann & Isaacson, with offices in Lewiston and Portland. Peter advises clients on labor and employment law.  Peter serves as employment counsel for numerous employers in Maine, including L.L. Bean.  He represents schools, municipalities and public utilities across Maine.  Peter edits the Maine Employment Law Letter and has been recognized as a Best Lawyer for representing management in employment law since 2013. He is a frequent presenter on employment law and has written and spoken extensively about employment issues during the Pandemic.

At some point every employer has the problem employee whose performance needs managing and in some cases may need to be let go. This workshop will provide you with practical advice on managing this employee and reducing legal risk. We’ll cover the following points:

*The classic traits of the problem employee.
*Addressing the employee’s complaints.
*Effective performance management and progressive discipline.
*Best practices for documentation.
*Identifying and addressing red flags.
*Key issues when terminating the problem employee.

SESSION 04    ---------------------------------

Investment Opportunities for Utilities in Today’s Market

SPEAKERS: Jason Simcock - Senior Vice President, Northeast Bank

Learn about today’s investment opportunities for public utilities in today’s changing rate environment.  We’ll discuss key elements of investment strategies and available products to invest with for public entities.  In addition, we will cover how to bank and invest safely and some best practices to help prevent fraud.