A Seat at the Table: My MML Conference Experience in Biloxi, MS
The 94th Annual Mississippi Municipal League Conference was held July 21–23, 2025 in beautiful Biloxi—and y’all, it was an experience I won’t forget.
I had the honor of attending as the guest of Alderwoman Sandra “Sunshine Lady” Hodges, who not only registered me but welcomed me into a space full of movers, shakers, and decision-makers from across the state. Being in the room with some of Mississippi’s most engaged and effective public servants? That’s the kind of access and exposure you don’t take lightly—especially as a voting citizen and a political consultant.
Let me be real: Holly Springs showed up and showed out. Our Board was stepping — they stood out in a room full of municipal officials from across Mississippi. The way they carried themselves, the way they communicated — it was impressive. They represented Holly Springs with pride and professionalism, and we should all be proud.
Even more powerful: two of our board members earned their Certified Municipal Official (CMO) designations. That means they’ve done the work, taken the classes, and gotten educated on how to serve their wards — and our city — with real excellence. That’s major. Because when our leaders understand the ins and outs of municipal law, finance, land use, and risk management — every single citizen benefits.
The conference was packed with knowledge and intention. From mock board meetings and budget breakdowns to sessions designed specifically for newly elected officials, the information was both accessible and empowering. These weren’t boring lectures either—they were real, relatable, and relevant to what our communities need.
As the CEO of Lambert Advisors, I’ve built a career supporting professionals, entrepreneurs, businesses, organizations, campaigns, and now, public officials that matter. And this experience? It just reminded me of why I do what I do. Getting the chance to travel with Alderwoman Hodges, to witness her leadership and dedication firsthand, and to continue learning alongside her is something I’ll always be grateful for. She’s not just a client—she’s a role model.
Let’s talk about the heart of the conference—the sessions:
📊 Municipal Finance & Budgeting:
This wasn’t just about numbers—it was about powerful planning. I learned the anatomy of a strong municipal budget and how it serves as a blueprint for city priorities. From annual audits to understanding revenue streams and legal requirements, the session made it clear: a well-managed budget isn’t just good governance—it’s community care in action.
🏙 Municipal Land Use & Community Planning:
If you want to know how cities grow the right way, this is where it starts. We explored the critical role of comprehensive planning in shaping development, zoning, and infrastructure. Every great neighborhood starts with a plan—and this session broke down how policies, public projects, and sound management are the tools to get us there.
⚖️ Municipal Law & Ethics:
With heavy hitters from the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, the Mississippi Ethics Commission, and the State Auditor’s Office, this session was a must. We examined legal guardrails that protect both the city and its elected officials. Everything from public meeting requirements to conflict of interest policies was discussed. It was a serious reminder: transparency isn’t optional—it's essential.
🧾 Understanding Financials (w/ MS State Auditor):
This session dove deep into creating and interpreting budgets, annual audits, and how to spot red flags. I left feeling even more prepared to advise clients on fiscal responsibility—because when public money is in play, accountability is non-negotiable.
🛡 Risk Management & Liability:
Protecting your city starts with protecting your people. We learned how to identify potential liabilities, implement strategies to reduce workers comp claims, and create a workplace culture that prioritizes safety. This was gold for anyone involved in city operations or HR strategy.
🧑🏽⚖️ Mock Board Meeting:
Hands-down one of the most engaging sessions. This live demo showcased real-time scenarios of how a city board meeting should be conducted—from parliamentary procedures to public comments. It was informative and showed exactly why boardroom conduct matters just as much as campaign promises.
🏛 Municipal Organization & Governance:
This session laid out the forms of municipal government—code charter, strong mayor, council-manager, and commission systems. Understanding the differences helped clarify how power is distributed, and how leaders like aldermen fit into the big picture.
Final Thoughts:
This wasn’t just a conference. This was a confirmation.
A confirmation that education, exposure, and experience matter—and when women like Sandra Hodges bring their whole selves to the table, the community wins. I’m proud to be her consultant, and even prouder to be a citizen who’s now more informed, empowered, and connected.
To all my fellow professionals: stay curious. Keep learning. Get in the room—and when you do, take notes.
Until next time,
Paulette
