The Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) has been committed to preserving and strengthening township government since 1921. The association works with state and federal lawmakers to address issues pertaining to townships, offers insurance programs to meet the needs of townships' employees and provides ongoing communication and education for public officials.
Back in-person for the first time since the pandemic, this year's conference took place April 24-27 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Themed "Together Again," the conference offered training and networking opportunities for township officials and employees.
Solicitors Emily J. Mueller and Kate M. Diersen presented "How Was That Decided," an insightful and intuitive look into five recent township-related cases. Attendees heard the facts of each case, listened to arguments in favor of each side's position, and were then asked to predict the outcome. At that point, Emily and Kate revealed and explained the court's decision in each case, so the attendees understood the outcome and how the decision was made.
Emily currently serves as Solicitor to the boroughs of Thornburg, Rosslyn Farms, Big Run and Mt. Oliver, as well as the townships of Neville, Richland, Harrison, Kilbuck, Henderson and Gaskill. She also provides legal counsel to several Zoning Hearing Board (Millvale, Ohio Township and Reserve Township) and the Harrison Township Water Authority.
Kate serves as Solicitor to Collier Township, the boroughs of Bradford Woods, Conway, Green Tree and Oakmont, as well as the Western Allegheny Municipal Authority. She also serves as Special Counsel to the City of Aliquippa's Planning Commission.