TMCA Clerk Connections

Celebrating Community, Conversation, and the Future of TMCA Podcasting

In this special episode, the Texas Municipal Clerks Association podcast marks a meaningful transition as longtime host Marie Balthrop passes the mic to incoming host Aimee Nemer. Joined by TMCA Education Director Dr. Amy Holt, the conversation reflects on the origins and growth of the podcast, which launched in July 2024 and has since reached listeners across the United States and internationally. Dr. Holt shares behind-the-scenes history on how the podcast came to life, highlights listener statistics and popular episodes, and discusses the role the podcast plays in expanding educational access and professional connection within the municipal clerk community.
The episode also offers a personal look back at Balthrop’s time as host, including her journey into local government, lessons learned through conversations with clerks across Texas, and the importance of mentorship, transparency, and supporting professionals at every stage of their careers. Balthrop and Nemer discuss the value of authentic conversations, the challenges and humor behind recording episodes, and how the podcast has helped reinforce that municipal clerks are never alone in the work they do. The episode closes with reflections on the future of the podcast, plans for increased member involvement in shaping topics and guests, and appreciation for the strong sense of community within TMCA.
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Beyond Storage: Building Effective Records Management Strategies

In this episode, host Marie Balthrop talks with Megan Gregor, CMC, MLIS, founder of MuniRM, about practical strategies for managing records in an increasingly digital environment. Drawing on her background in library science and her experience as a records manager, deputy clerk, and city clerk in Washington state, Gregor explains how she transitioned into consulting and helping organizations implement digital records programs and tools like Laserfiche. The conversation explores key differences between paper and digital records—including how easily digital files are created, the challenges of organizing them, and the risks to record integrity. Gregor also highlights the advantages of enterprise content management systems, from improved search and automation to remote access, reduced storage needs, greater transparency, and environmental benefits. She offers practical guidance on distinguishing between storing and truly managing records, recommends starting with the elimination of transitory records, and stresses the importance of clear policies, organized file structures, and training departments to build long-term compliance and trust.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.
 

Leading Intergenerational Teams in Local Government

In this episode, host Marie Balthrop talks with Jannette Goodall, city secretary of Fort Worth, and Caitlan Biggs, assistant town manager of Little Elm, for a thoughtful conversation on leading intergenerational teams in today’s workplace. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities that come with managing employees across multiple generations, including differences in work styles, communication preferences, and motivations. The discussion highlights practical strategies for building strong relationships, recognizing individual strengths, and adapting leadership approaches to support diverse teams. Jannette and Caitlan also reflect on the evolving role of technology in local government and how leaders can balance modernization with the core values of public service. The episode offers actionable insights for creating inclusive, collaborative work environments where every generation can contribute and thrive.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Managing the Boom: How Clerks Navigate Rapid Community Growth

In this episode, host Marie Balthrop talks with Robyn Densmore, TRMC, city secretary for Georgetown, Texas, and Jennifer Kirkland, TRMC, city secretary for Kyle, Texas, about what it’s like to serve two of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Robyn and Jennifer share their career paths and discuss how rapid population increases have reshaped their day-to-day work — from managing rising open records requests and evolving election responsibilities to implementing new technology and supporting expanding departments. They also highlight strategies for maintaining employee morale and preserving a small-town level of service in the midst of major growth. The conversation touches on the importance of advocating for resources, leaning on peer support, and celebrating professional milestones, including Jennifer’s recent recognition as the Texas Municipal Clerks Association Emerging Leader Award recipient.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Mentorship, Milestones, and Municipal Leadership

In this episode, host Marie Balthrop sits down with Aimee Nemer, City Secretary for the City of Richardson and TMCA’s 2024 Clerk of the Year. Aimee shares her career journey and reflects on the milestones that have defined her path, including launching Richardson’s Citizens Academy and mentoring the next generation of clerks. The conversation explores the vital role of mentorship, the evolving demands of local government, and the supportive, collaborative culture of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association. The episode also shines a spotlight on the 2025 Clerk of the Year nominees, celebrating excellence across the profession.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Governance in Sync: Inside Clerk-Attorney Collaboration

In this episode, host Marie Balthrop is joined by James McKechnie, Deputy City Manager and former Deputy City Attorney for Wichita Falls; Becky McGrew, City Secretary for Katy; and Bridgette Begle, municipal lawyer with Olson & Olson, LLP. Together, they explore the vital partnership between city clerks and city attorneys in local government. From managing contracts and handling public information requests to drafting ordinances and resolutions, the discussion emphasizes how strong communication and collaboration between these roles are key to ensuring compliance, transparency, and smooth city operations.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Council–Staff Relationships in Local Government

Join host Marie Balthrop as she sits down with Frances Aguilar, TRMC, MMC, CPM, City Secretary of Pearland, Texas; Kevin Cole, Mayor of Pearland, Texas; Paulette Hartman, City Manager of North Richland Hills, Texas; and Alicia Richardson, TRMC, CMC, City Secretary of North Richland Hills, Texas to explore the keys to effective collaboration in local government. These experienced public servants share their personal paths into the field and offer real-world insights on building trust, defining roles, and improving communication between city staff and elected officials. From onboarding and strategic planning to managing expectations and promoting transparency, this conversation is packed with practical advice for fostering good governance at the local level.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

How City Secretaries Keep Small Cities Running

Join host Marie Balthrop as she sits down with Machiel Covey (Clarendon, Texas), Gretchen Mercer (Canyon, Texas), and Kimberly Sloat (Canadian, Texas) to explore the vital yet often unseen role of city secretaries in small Texas communities. They discuss their unique paths into the profession, the wide-ranging responsibilities they juggle—from elections and HR to budgeting and legal matters—and the challenges of working with limited resources. Through their experiences, they highlight the invaluable support of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association and the power of training, networking, and adaptability in navigating the complexities of small-city governance.
 
Clerk Connections to produced by Association Briefings.

Citizen Engagement, Technology, and Education

Join host Marie Balthrop as she chats with Mary Lynne Stratta, the newly retired city secretary for the City of Bryan, Texas, about her remarkable 44-year career in local government, including 34 years as city secretary. Mary Lynne reflects on the evolution of local government, the growing role of city secretaries, and the importance of sharing one’s professional journey. She highlights how technology has enhanced efficiency, the rise of citizen engagement, and the value of continuing education and certification. Mary Lynne also shares unforgettable moments, such as her involvement in a legal case surrounding a city deed and her work supporting the Bryan Fire Department after a devastating fire. She concludes with insights on founding the Helping Heroes Burn Foundation and the lasting impact of her work in public service.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.

Ensuring Neutrality and Accuracy in Texas Election Petitions

Join host Marie Balthrop as she talks with Rezzin Pullum, an associate attorney with the Bojorquez Law Firm, about petitions under Texas Election Code 277. They explore best practices for verifying signatures, addressing common issues like mismatched dates of birth and name changes, and ensuring city clerks maintain neutrality throughout the process. Pullum emphasizes leveraging tools such as the Texas Secretary of State voter portal and GIS systems for efficient verification and stresses the importance of documenting reasons for rejecting signatures while staying updated on local laws and requirements.
 
Clerk Connections is produced by Association Briefings.