Tressler attorneys James J. Hess and Katie E. Ngo will present at the Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association’s (IPELRA) 47th Annual Training Conference on Monday, October 5, 2026, in Galena, IL. Their presentation is titled “Discipline and Discharge.” We look forward to an engaging session!

The training conference will help attendees build new strategies and enhance their skills through sessions led by experienced professionals in public sector HR, labor relations, and employment law. Topics will include utilizing AI in the workplace and addressing today’s most challenging employee issues. Attendees will gain practical tools, fresh ideas, and valuable connections to advance their careers.

When:
October 5, 2026
2:30 pm CT to 3:45 pm CT

Where:
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
444 Eagle Ridge Drive
Galena, IL 61036

Click here to learn more and register.

About the Presentation:

Your knowledge of procedural requirements in disciplinary and discharge proceedings can either invite risk or safeguard against risk. Sharpen your knowledge of discipline to discharge, and everything in between. From Weingarten rights to Loudermill hearings and Garrity protections, you need to know what procedural rights apply in different types of disciplinary or discharge decisions – and when they do not apply – to guide your organization through difficult situations.

About James J. Hess

Jim represents various local government entities, primarily focusing on day-to-day operations for cities, villages, fire protection districts, park districts, and library districts. Jim’s practice includes handling intergovernmental agreements, ordinances, contract negotiations, administrative proceedings, demolition issues, employment, Open Meetings Act issues, Freedom of Information Act matters, tort liability defense, and ethics. Jim also handles a variety of land use matters, including Tax Increment Financing districts, redevelopment agreements, annexations, and comprehensive planning.

About Katie E. Ngo

Katie is senior counsel in Tressler’s Local Government Practice Group. She concentrates her practice in all aspects of school law. She works directly with superintendents and administrators to ensure compliance with the Illinois School Code, the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA), the Open Meetings Act (OMA), the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and various other state and federal laws and regulations.

About the Conference:

LEVEL UP at this year’s Annual Training Conference! Build new strategies and elevate your skills with sessions led by experts in public sector HR, labor relations, and employment law. From harnessing AI in the workplace to tackling today’s toughest employee issues, you’ll gain practical tools, fresh ideas, and valuable connections to advance your career. Click here to learn more.

About IPELRA

The Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association is an organization of public sector labor relations professionals charged with representing management with respect to collective bargaining and labor relations matters. The Association serves as a resource and advocate, providing top-quality training, information, networking opportunities, and support for legislative initiatives that further management’s interests in effective labor relations. Click here to learn more.