OTA 2026 Winter Conference & Trade Show Recap
2026 OTA Winter Conference & Trade Show Recap
The final float has rolled by for the 2026 OTA Winter Conference & Trade Show, which paraded into downtown Columbus from February 4-6, 2026, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. With record-breaking attendance, this year's conference proved to be one for the history books. We extend our sincere thanks to every attendee guest, sponsor, vendor, staff member, and volunteer who made this celebration possible. Over three packed days, township leaders from across the state truly embodied this year's theme: Get Involved, Get Inspired, and Get Festive!
The conference festivities kicked off on Wednesday, February 4, with the Newbie Orientation for first time attendees. Hundreds of newcomers gathered to learn how to make the most of their conference experience, explore the benefits of OTA membership, and discover the many resources available to help them succeed.
After the first round of workshops where attendees could learn about legislative updates, fiscal officer survival tips, zoning law updates, and more, many mingled for a snack break and networked with vendors inside our Trade Show hall. Over 160 vendors specialized in helping townships showcased their expertise and services. A public records training was also offered Wednesday afternoon for fiscal officers needing mandatory certification. After this, and a second round of edutional sessions featuring workshops that focused on preventing fraud, JEDDs, oversight of safety services, and more, many attendees traveled to the Ohio Statehouse for the Legislative Reception, where township officials connected with state legislators and staff for meaningful conversations focused on advocacy and involvement.
The first day concluded with the County Officers Meeting, where 60 county leaders received a newly revised draft of the OTA County Township Association Handbook and heard from candidates on Thursday's Director and Officer Election Ballot.
On Thursday, February 5, eager attendees lined up bright and early as registration opened at 8:00 a.m. Shortly thereafter, outgoing OTA Board President Scott Fabian used the President's gavel one final time to officially open the General Session of the 2026 OTA Winter Conference.
2025 graduates of the OTA's Leadership Academy (OTALA) were presented with diplomas, receiving recognition in front of thousands of peers from townships across the state. Other awards presented were the County Membership Achievement and Old-Timer awards.
After a heartfelt goodbye to President Fabian, Executive Director Heidi M. Fought welcomed Governor Mike DeWine to the stage, who stressed the importance of property taxes for township revenue. Heidi set the stage for the much-anticipated Property Tax Panel featuring Bill Seitz, David Thomas, and Chris Galloway with an inspiring speech for township officials. It was standing-room only for this event, and the discussion was packed with vital information on this hot-button issue. While panelists offered differing perspectives on potential paths forward, all agreed that eliminating property taxes altogether would not be the solution. With such strong engagement and valuable discussion, the panel could have easily continued for another hour.
With no opposition for the officer seats on the OTA Board of Directors, Ron Miller (Holmes Twp, Crawford Co.) was elected President, Carl Mangun (Augusta Twp, Carroll Co.) was elected First Vice President, Gary Salmon (Oxford Twp, Butler Co.) was elected Second Vice President, and Ed Good (Mead Twp, Belmont Co.) was elected Secretary-Treasurer.
Newly elected Board Members include Fred Vonderhaar (Warren County), Tony Eufinger (Union County), Chad Parsons (Lorain County), Steve Willis (Jackson County), and Dain Spears (Lawrence County).
Following the Coalition of Large Ohio Urban Townships (CLOUT) meeting and lunch, Thursday featured three rounds of workshops where attendees paraded from a UAN update session, to Ohio Cemeteries 101, to Team Building excersises.
As the sun set, the beads came out for a sold-out Casino Night, where attendees showed off their gambling skills and won prizes for a chance to unwind after a busy day of learning. With lush décor and themed cuisine, the room felt like a slice of New Orleans transported to Columbus.
The morning of Friday, February 6 began with Coffee & Conversations With Heidi, which buzzed with excitement as attendees enjoyed Mardi-Gras themed donuts connecting with OTA Executive Director Heidi M. Fought and township officials from across the state.
The day continued with two more rounds of full educational sessions featuring workshops like Parks Programming brainstorms and a full room dedicated to the growing impact of data centers. Attendees were given one last chance to snack and mingle with vendors as the last winner of our popular Trade Show Bingo was called.
This year's Luncheon featured artist and motivational speaker Sam Glenn, who captivated the audience by creating a stunning piece of art live on stage while sharing his powerful story of resilience. Sam's message left attendees feeling inspired, recharged, and ready to bring a renewed positivity back to their townships.
As snowflakes began to fall outside, attendees headed back into classrooms for the final two rounds of workshops, eager to soak up as much knowledge as possible. Popular sessions were repeated to ensure everyone had a chance to attend the workshops they wanted.
The 2026 OTA Winter Conference & Trade Show was a vibrant celebration of learning, connection, and community. As the beads got packed away and the parade routes cleared, one thing is certain: Ohio's township officials are heading home inspired, festive at heart, and more involved than ever. We can't wait to see you from February 10-12, 2027, for next year's conference!