The Basics
Who are we?
ACCRTA is a membership organization for those currently in the role of City Clerk, Recorder, and/or Treasurer, or a related position for a municipality within the state of Arkansas.
What are the association’s mission and vision?
Our vision is to build a strong, inclusive CRT community across Arkansas, united by integrity, inclusion, and lifelong learning, and to elevate the profession as a leader in excellence, service, and impact.
We are dedicated to serving our members with integrity, fostering collaboration, advancing education, and building a strong, supportive community. Through ethical leadership, shared knowledge, and meaningful connections, we empower individuals and strengthen the collective.
Why should you join – and renew?
We are dedicated to serving each member fairly in the following areas:
- Advocacy for individuals and the profession, including legislative advocacy.
- Support & Networking to form a culture of mutual respect and care, experienced mentors for new members, and multiple avenues for ongoing communication.
- Education Expense Assistance in the form of scholarships, totaling over $10,000 annually.
- Education through mentorships, ongoing communications, workshop instruction, Institute instruction and social activities.
Why are we all referred to as “clerks” when our roles and titles vary?
The collective term “clerk” has been used since our inception over 70 years ago, for convenience in both writing and speaking.
Over the years those who interact with municipal clerks, recorders, treasurers, finance directors, deputy clerks, financial assistants, and people in similar positions have continued using “clerk” as a simple, inclusive term to describe the wide range of roles that support municipal operations.
While our responsibilities vary, the shared commitment to transparency, accuracy, and public service unites us. The term is meant for convenience and tradition, not to diminish the importance or diversity of what we do.
How is ACCRTA structured?
- Executive Committee: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer
- Executive Board: Current EC and committee chairs, plus all past presidents still holding office
- Committees: Appointed by the President each July
For details visit the Officers & Committees page
What’s the difference between ACCRTA, IIMC, MCI, and AML?
Each of these is autonomous from the others, but all work closely together to provide education and certification to CRTs.
- Arkansas City Clerks, Recorders, & Treasurers Association - ACCRTA: Professional organization only for AR CRTs and related positions.
- International Institute for Municipal Clerks - IIMC: Professional organization for CRTs and related positions for anyone in the world. Sets curriculum and other guidelines for state organization and activities.
- Municipal Clerks Institute – MCI: A school only for Arkansas CRTs that operates under collaboration between ACCRTA, IIMC, and AML.
- Arkansas Municipal League – AML: A state organization whose members are cities and towns, which offers important services and education to municipal officials and employees, and lobbies on behalf of cities and towns with the Arkansas Legislature.
What are the association districts and what are they for?
Our District Map matches the current congressional district map used by the Arkansas Municipal League (AML).
In ACCRTA, the districts are primarily used to determine locations for the quarterly education workshops.
How do I become an ACCRTA Officer?
The track to becoming an officer begins with hosting a successful MCI District Workshop. Next, your name is added to the list of qualified members, from which the Nomination Committee will recommend officers for the next term.
If you have hosted a District Workshop and are interested in serving as an officer, contact the Nominations Committee Chair.
If you are interested in hosting a District Workshop, attend at least one, then contact the current President for details on what is expected.
Where can I find the ACCRTA Constitution & By-laws?
You can find that document in the Document Archive, along with many others.
Membership
Membership is open to anyone currently serving as a municipal clerk, recorder, treasurer, finance director, or related position.
See the Membership page for all the details.
Networking & Community
How do I join a committee?
Members place their names on committee interest forms at the annual June business meeting. The president appoints chairs and members each July for the coming year.
Otherwise, contact the current President to express your interest.
Is there a mentorship program?
Yes! We have mentors for every size and structure of town.
Contact the Mentor Committee Chair to get information.
Can a non-member city clerk/recorder/treasurer obtain a mentor through the ACCRTA's membership program?
No, mentors are a perk of being a member of ACCRTA.
The Arkansas Municipal League offers an email Clerks/Recorders/Treasurers Community option for your questions. (ACCRTA does not have access to approve requestors to join.
What is the fastest way to plug into the network of members?
Ask to join the ACCRTA Facebook Group.
Set up an account in the AML Clerks/Recorders/Treasurers email community.
Attend all the upcoming workshops and events possible. See our Event Calendar for dates and times.
Use the contact information on the Officers & Committees page to call or email anyone listed. They can direct you to answers and/or provide a listening ear.
Education
One of our primary aims is ensuring that CRTs have the education needed to do their jobs well.
We have a strong culture of continuous learning in service to our communities.
This growth mindset is essential for:
- Better Service to Your Community: Learning new skills helps you make informed decisions and provide better services.
- Earning Public Trust: Ongoing training shows you care about doing your job well and being accountable.
- Handling New Challenges: A growth mindset helps you adapt to changes in laws, technology, and community needs.
The association works closely with AML, MCI, and IIMC to help provide relevant, timely, quality education to our members.
Information about training and certification opportunities is on the Education & Certification page.
Scholarships
ACCRTA provides over $10,000 to members each year for scholarships to attend professional education opportunities. Visit the Scholarship page for details.