Registration is now closed for the Winter/Spring 2026 term, and we are no longer taking names for a waiting list. Registration will open December 1, 2026 for the Winter 2027 term, when the zoom format will be offered again for this unit. Otherwise, registration for the Fall 2026 term will open on July 2, 2026 for the correspondence format. There is no waiting list for future terms.
Please note:
- Attendance is required. Please confirm you are available for all classes prior to registering.
- The schedule for this offering of MLP Unit 1 is accelerated to enable the completion of two units via Zoom format within one term. If you prefer a schedule with assignment deadlines spaced out over a longer period, please choose the correspondence format.
Textbook
The course textbook is provided as a PDF file to all registrants. The file will be available in AMCTO Connect once the course opens for access by January 16. However, AMCTO provides the option to purchase a hard copy of the textbook with an additional fee, and the book is shipped through Canada Post's Xpresspost. You'll have an opportunity to purchase the hard copy textbook through the online registration process. Due to logistics, textbook shipping may not start until after registration closes on January 12.
Instructor
Kristen M. Van Alphen, Dipl.M.M.
Manager of Legislative Services, City of Owen Sound
Kristen brings a background in law and the arts to her work in municipal government. She is committed to strengthening effective governance, fostering supportive leadership, and helping new and emerging municipal professionals navigate legal and procedural concepts with clarity. Kristen is a contributing author for MLP Unit 1 materials and has taught the course in her municipality in the past. She is also a member of AMCTO’s Professional Growth Committee. She holds an LL.B., a Master of Public Administration, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in English and Drama.