Government Affairs & Legislation Council
The Latest Council Activities and News

MI-AWWA collaborates with the Michigan Water Environment Association on policy issues, working with lobbying firm Midwest Strategy Group to influence legislation and regulations. As a member driven organization, much of our advocacy work is done through our Board and Government Affairs Council. If you are interested in getting involved in particular issue or in volunteering on the Government Affairs Council, please contact staff.
Council Activities
Legislation |
Advocacy |
Section Spokespeople |
Resources |
There is a lot happening in Government Affairs as we head into the fall, with several opportunities to learn, engage, and represent Michigan's drinking water community.
Advocacy 101 Webinar | August 18
MI-AWWA and MWEA will host a joint Advocacy 101 Webinar on Tuesday, August 18, from 12:00–1:00 PM.
This webinar is a great opportunity to learn more about advocacy, the legislative process, and how water professionals can effectively engage on issues impacting our industry.
Legislative Day | September 22 – Tentative
Our annual Legislative Day in Lansing is moving to the fall this year and is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, September 22.
Additional information will be shared as soon as the date and event details are confirmed.
Stay tuned for updates.
Government Affairs Council Meeting at MI-ACE | September 16
The next Government Affairs Council meeting will be held in person during MI-ACE in Kalamazoo on Wednesday, September 16 at 11:45 AM.
Council members should watch for a calendar invitation and are encouraged to submit potential agenda items in advance.
Opportunity to Serve: Water Asset Management Council
The Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC) is seeking applicants for a position on Michigan's Water Asset Management Council (WAMC) representing a regional drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater authority.
The selected member will serve a three-year term from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2029.
Interested applicants should either currently work for a regional drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater authority or include a formal letter of support from an authority with their application.
Applications are due Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
Stay Engaged
Government Affairs is strongest when Michigan's water professionals are informed and involved. Whether you attend a webinar, join us for Legislative Day, participate in the Government Affairs Council, or lend your expertise through opportunities like WAMC, your involvement helps strengthen the voice of Michigan's water community.
Government Affairs Council
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Sara RubinoGovernment Policy Attorney Oakland County Water Resources CommissionerCouncil Chair
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Wayne Jernberg
Managing Director of Utilities Grand Rapids Water DepartmentCouncil Vice-Chair -
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Nicolette BatesonChief Financial Officer & Treasurer Great Lakes Water AuthorityCouncil Member
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Teresa Johnson
Deputy Public Services Director City of Kalamazoo - Dept of Pub SvcsCouncil Member -
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Michael McDanielDirector of Government and Customer Relations BlueConduitCouncil Member
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John O'BrienDirector Genesee County Drain Commissioner Water & Waste ServicesCouncil Member
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