The Newly Elected Officials Course
About NEOC
In 1983, Allegheny County established Local Government Academy to help inform and educate local government officials and staff. Since then, our flagship program, the Newly Elected Officials Course, also known as NEOC, has become a trusted resource for training public officials in the practice of good governance. With NEOC as your foundation, you are empowered as a leader on all aspects of governing.
Serving as an Elected Official
The Newly Elected Officials Course (NEOC) is a comprehensive program for public officials to build a solid foundation of knowledge essential to effective governing. Focusing on the unique needs of local government, and featuring expert instructors, each session takes a deep dive into subjects such as municipal finance, public sector personnel law, the Public Officials Act, ethical decision making, emergency services, and more.
While unique for its depth of content, NEOC is designed to help incoming elected and appointed officials develop their leadership skills and build important relationships. Peer-to-Peer engagement offers opportunities to grow your network and find mentors from other public service professionals.
Saturday workshop sessions will offer a comfortable learning environment and safe opportunities to network with instructors and municipal resource partners.
Historically, 90 percent of participants have their tuition paid for by their community after they are sworn into office as an investment in good government. Additionally, a limited number of scholarships are available through our Michael P. Lynch Scholarship Fund. Click here to see if your community qualifies.
Registration Options
Registration opens November 4th, 2025. Registration fees subject to change. Fees are based on municipal population
Dependent upon capacity, Single Sessions may be offered to allow veteran public officials to attend certain courses.
Public officials employed in professions including attorneys and finance officers will be eligible to apply for continuing education credits.
The Preliminary 2025-2026 NEOC Schedule of Classes
Kick-start your career as an elected official. Network with public service peers, colleagues, and mentors. You’ll be ready for that first meeting after municipal experts review the roles and responsibilities you now have as a public servant.
Check-In & Continental Breakfast
8:30 a.m.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 p.m.
Program Ends
2:00 p.m.
Location
Hilton DoubleTree Hotel – Green Tree
500 Mansfield Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
You have new powers and duties – it’s time to discover them. Municipal code sets out your powers and duties as a public servant, and this session will help you understand what that means while introducing you to strategic budgeting and finance management.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 a.m.
Program Ends
3:00 p.m.
Location
TBD
Come learn about budgeting and financial management for municipal governments. You’ll also explore the rights and responsibilities of elected officials under the Sunshine Act and Right to Know Law.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 a.m.
Program Ends
3:00 p.m.
Location
TBD
Learn key aspects of public sector human resource management including navigating labor negotiations and hiring. In addition, learn about new regional developments in community policing and best practices for communication as an elected official.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 p.m.
Program Ends
2:00 p.m.
Location
TBD
What’s expected of you when it comes to emergency management, fire protection, and policing? Know the threats facing emergency responders, as well as the latest rules and best practices in policing. Features a tour of the Allegheny County Emergency Services center.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 a.m.
Program Ends
3:00 p.m.
Location
Allegheny County Emergency Services
150 Hookstown Grade Rd.,
Moon Township, PA 15108
Come engage in tailored breakout sessions on land development issues facing different types of communities. Learn about long-term capital planning, infrastructure investments, and public works issues.
Program Begins
9:00 a.m.
Lunch is Served
11:30 a.m.
Program Ends
3:00 p.m.
Location
TBD
It’s time to celebrate and recognize your hard work and commitment to Excellence in Local Government. Graduates will receive a Program Completion Certificate.
Program Begins
5:30 p.m.
Program Ends
8:00 p.m.
Location
Hilton DoubleTree Hotel – Green Tree
500 Mansfield Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15205