Chief Executives Meeting
The Chief Executives Meeting is built for municipal chief executives across Wisconsin who want real conversation with peers who understand the job.
It's a small-format program that makes room for candid discussion, strategic thinking, and peer connection among leaders who share similar responsibilities, pressures, and opportunities.
Fewer topics, deeper conversations, and the chance to dig into tough issues with people who get it.
Unlike larger conferences, this meeting is designed for smaller group discussion. You'll have time to ask the tough questions and work through complex challenges alongside trusted peers.
The Value of Stepping Away
Leadership in local government is demanding, and often isolating. The Chief Executives Meeting is a chance to step back from the day-to-day, reflect on your role, and spend time with peers who understand the weight of the work.
2026 Chief Executives Meeting
August 20–21, 2026 · Lake Lawn Resort, Delavan
Register Today!
Register NowTax-exempt forms must be submitted to the hotel in advance.
| Rate Period | MemberLeague / Insured | Non-Member |
|---|---|---|
| Early — Through Jul 10 | $275 | $375 |
| Regular — Jul 11 – Aug 7 | $325 | $425 |
Wednesday, August 19
|
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Networking
Informal Networking Meet-Up
Lookout Bar
Unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a casual, no-program gathering. Drop in at any time to meet new peers, reconnect with familiar faces, and ease into the event over good conversation. |
Thursday, August 20
|
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Optional Add-on
Golfing Majestic Oaks
Experience the thrill of playing golf on one of the Midwest's most esteemed courses, Majestic Oaks, right here at Lake Lawn Resort. Nestled along the picturesque lakeshore and surrounded by over 250 lush, tree-lined acres and two miles of pristine shoreline, our championship golf course promises not only a challenging game but also breathtaking views. You can book your tee times online at Lake Lawn Resort or call the Pro Shop directly at 262.725.9200.
|
|
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Check-In
Registration
Upper Pre-Function Area
Check in, grab your materials, and get oriented for the day ahead. Our team will be on hand to answer questions and help you get settled. Sponsor tables will also be available to explore and connect. |
|
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch & General Session
Opening General Session
Geneva Club
Kick off the meeting with a shared lunch and opening session designed to bring the group together and set the tone for the day. Welcome remarks and opening reflections focus on leadership, connection, and the role of local officials in today's evolving landscape. |
|
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Session
Emerging Economic Development Tools
Geneva 2
Explore a range of tools and strategies communities are using to support growth and development. This session highlights current approaches and evolving opportunities that can help municipal leaders navigate economic priorities and advance local initiatives. |
|
2:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Break
|
|
2:15 PM - 3:00 PM
Session
Innovation Grants - Wauwatosa Fire/EMS (MUSA)
Geneva 2
A closer look at how Innovation Grant funding is being leveraged to support public safety and service delivery. Explore a real-world example and how creative approaches and grant opportunities can help municipalities advance new ideas and solutions. |
|
3:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Concurrent Idea Jams
Peer-Driven Idea Jams
Join a peer-driven discussion tailored to your community context. These facilitated sessions surface ideas, share challenges, and exchange practical strategies with others navigating similar realities. Engage in focused conversation and leave with insights you can take back and apply right away.
|
|
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Social Event
Cocktail Reception & Dinner
Enchanted Shores (Outdoors) · Rain Location: Geneva Club
Join us for an evening reception honoring outgoing Executive Director Jerry Deschane's leadership and contributions, set against the scenic backdrop of Enchanted Shores. Enjoy great food, conversation, and a chance to connect with colleagues in a relaxed, celebratory setting. |
Friday, August 21
|
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Breakfast & Networking
Breakfast & Networking
Geneva Club
Start the day with a relaxed breakfast and time to connect with peers. Space for conversation, relationship-building, and shared insights before the day's sessions begin. |
|
9:15 AM - 10:00 AM
Session
Morning Session
Geneva 2
Session details coming soon. |
|
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Break · Upper Pre-Function Area
|
|
10:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Peer Discussion
Case Consultancies (Executive-Level Design)
Geneva 2
Work through real, current challenges alongside a small group of peers in a structured, discussion-based format. Small groups engage through thoughtful questions and shared experience to help bring greater clarity and perspective. Focused on insight over quick fixes, this session is designed to deepen thinking, strengthen judgment, and surface practical takeaways for immediate application. |
|
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch & Closing Session
Closing General Session
Great Room
Close out the meeting with a reflective and forward-looking conversation over lunch. This session brings together a mix of experienced and newer leaders to share insights, lessons learned, and perspectives gained along the way. An opportunity to step back, reflect, and carry key takeaways forward. |
Why Attend
+ Real Conversations with People Who Get It
Connect with fellow mayors, administrators, and chief executives who understand the realities of leading a municipality. This is a space for honest dialogue, shared experiences, and practical insight.
+ Focused, Relevant Content
Sessions are intentionally curated to reflect the most pressing issues facing municipal leadership—from governance and community dynamics to strategic decision-making and organizational leadership.
+ Actionable Takeaways
Leave with ideas you can put into practice right away—whether it's a new approach to navigating conflict, strengthening your team, or advancing key priorities in your community.
+ Built-In Peer Network
The relationships formed here extend beyond the meeting itself. Participants gain a trusted network of colleagues to call on throughout the year.
What Makes This Different
The Chief Executives Meeting is intentionally designed to be:
+ Small & Interactive
Allowing for meaningful participation and discussion among peers who face similar challenges and opportunities.
+ Peer-Driven
Grounded in the real experiences of municipal leaders—not theory, but practice.
+ Strategic in Focus
Centered on leadership, governance, and long-term impact rather than day-to-day operations.
+ Confidential & Candid
Creating a space where leaders can speak openly about challenges, successes, and lessons learned.
Who Should Attend
This meeting is designed for municipal chief executives, including:
Other senior municipal leaders serving in a chief executive capacity are also welcome.
| Access Date | Quiz Result | Score | Actions |
|---|