Navigating Crises with Confidence

At Feather Touch Consulting, we specialize in Crisis Management and Prevention for Illinois Townships and Municipalities. With over 40 years of combined municipal experience, our team is equipped to alleviate existing problems and implement strategies to prevent future issues. Let us guide you through challenging times with proven, stress-reducing solutions.

Empowering New Leadership

Transitioning into a newly elected position can be overwhelming. Our Newly Elected Officials Coaching program offers tailored guidance on budgeting, appropriations, levying, and meeting protocols. Feather Touch Consulting is committed to nurturing the growth of Illinois township leaders, ensuring you have the tools to succeed from day one.

Strengthening Your Township's Foundation

A solid organizational structure is key to municipal success. Feather Touch Consulting provides comprehensive services in Organization, Reformation, and Processes & Procedures. We help identify potential issues before they escalate and offer best-practice solutions to optimize your township’s operations.

Patrick A. Sellers

General Liaison

Born and raised in Freeport, Illinois, Patrick A. Sellers brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Feather Touch Consulting. Serving as the Freeport Township Supervisor since 2013, Patrick has demonstrated unwavering dedication to township government. He is a proud graduate of Columbia College of Missouri, holding a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies with an emphasis on Business Administration, and is a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society. In May 2023, he became a published author with his book, “I Do Solemnly Swear,” which outlines the challenges he faced as a political newcomer.

Patrick epitomizes commitment to strengthening township government. He founded the Stephenson County Township Cooperative to bolster the townships of Northwestern Illinois. Throughout the state, he has successfully advised multiple supervisors, clerks, and board members on FOIA requirements, programming, general assistance, budgets and appropriations, community relations, and crisis management and prevention.

Michael J. Phillips

Legal Liaison

With over 30 years of experience in municipal and township law, Michael J. Phillips brings unparalleled expertise to Feather Touch Consulting. Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Relations from the University of Notre Dame and his Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law.

Serving as the Freeport Township Attorney since 2013, Michael has been instrumental in reforming the township’s legal framework. His mastery of municipal and township ordinances and resolutions is truly remarkable. Michael’s proactive approach to planning and avoiding legal pitfalls makes him an invaluable asset to our team. His extensive experience includes advising various local governments in Illinois and Indiana, including cities, villages, towns, townships, housing authorities, mosquito abatement districts, and fire protection districts.

Elizabeth Meinert

Financial Liaison

Elizabeth Meinert brings a high level of financial expertise to Feather Touch Consulting. Transitioning from a corporate background in finance to township governmental finances in 2013, she has encountered a wide array of financial situations. Elizabeth’s meticulous attention to detail and her uncanny ability to identify ways to save taxpayer money have been instrumental in the success of the Freeport Township.

She is a proud graduate of Columbia College of Missouri, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management with a major in Marketing, and is a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society. Elizabeth’s commitment to financial excellence ensures that our clients receive top-tier advice and solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Shirley Vazquez

Leadership Liaison

Dr. Shirley Vazquez, affectionately known as Dr. Shirls, brings over 20 years of experience in developing leaders across the United States. She has been a national speaker at continuing education conferences and symposiums for physicians and has a rich history of organizing, facilitating, and teaching in the field of Life Coaching.

With a passion for fostering community through leadership, education, diversity, philanthropy, and open communication, Dr. Shirls has motivated and inspired individuals of all ages and backgrounds. For more than two decades, she has worked with children, youth, and adults—both in groups and one-on-one—helping them develop self-reliance, responsibility, and the skills needed to reach their full potential.

Dr. Shirls believes that information is the great equalizer and that education, whether formal or informal, has the power to transform lives and impact future generations. As a lifelong learner, she holds a Master’s Degree in Human Services Counseling with a focus on Executive Leadership, a Master of Divinity in Leadership, and a Doctorate in Education with a specialization in Leadership. She is also a Board-Certified Mental Health Coach and a Certified Human Rights Consultant.

Ray Bordner

Highway Liaison

Ray Bordner brings over two decades of expertise as a Highway Commissioner for Rock Run Township to Feather Touch Consulting, LLC. During his tenure, Mr. Bordner successfully managed and maintained 74 miles of roadways and nine bridges in a rural area with no subdivisions, demonstrating a strong commitment to infrastructure and public safety. His leadership and operational excellence earned him the role of Secretary of the Stephenson County Highway Commissioners Association, where he played a pivotal part in organizing and serving as Secretary for the Northwest Illinois Highway Commissioners Association.

Since 2004, Mr. Bordner has continued his public service as the Rock Run Township Supervisor, a role he holds to this day. In late 2019, he partnered with Mr. Sellers to co-found the Stephenson County Township Cooperative, furthering his dedication to township collaboration and advocacy.

Mr. Bordner’s passion for the preservation and sustainability of Illinois Townships aligns perfectly with the mission and vision of Feather Touch Consulting, LLC, making him a valued leader in guiding the firm’s strategic initiatives related to highway and infrastructure management.

Robert Dixon

AI Driven Digital Marketing Liaison

Robert Dixon is a seasoned Digital Consultant and Strategist with over a decade of experience leveraging cutting-edge AI tools, data analytics, and marketing strategies to drive business growth. Based in Freeport, Illinois, Robert specializes in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights, enhancing user engagement, and optimizing digital marketing efforts for measurable success.

Certified in Google AI Essentials, Google Data Analytics, and Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Robert brings advanced expertise in tools like SQL, R, and Python, paired with practical skills in platforms like Google Analytics 4 (GA4), HubSpot, and Contentsquare. His work spans multiple industries, with a proven track record of leading enterprise-wide analytics migrations, developing KPI-driven strategies, and implementing innovative CRM integrations.

Robert’s passion for education and technology extends to teaching digital marketing and analytics courses, empowering professionals with actionable skills. A forward-thinker committed to continuous learning, Robert’s expertise is a dynamic blend of technical prowess and creative strategy, making him a valuable partner for organizations navigating digital transformation.

Our Process For Navigating Success Together

What is the process for engaging Feather Touch Consulting's services?

To begin working with us, you can start by booking a free consultation through our website or by contacting us directly. During this initial meeting, we’ll discuss your municipality’s specific needs, challenges, and goals. After assessing your situation, we’ll develop a customized proposal outlining our recommended strategies and services to address your objectives effectively.

Can Feather Touch Consulting assist with legal compliance and FOIA requirements?

Yes, we have extensive experience in legal matters related to municipal and township governance. Our Legal Liaison, Michael J. Phillips, brings over 30 years of expertise in municipal and township law. We provide guidance on legal compliance, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal issues to ensure your municipality operates within the legal framework and avoids potential pitfalls.

How does Feather Touch Consulting help improve community and media relations?

We understand the critical role that community and media relations play in a municipality’s success. Our team offers strategies to enhance communication with residents and effectively manage media interactions. We help you develop transparent communication plans, handle public inquiries, and navigate media coverage during both routine operations and crisis situations, fostering trust and positive relationships within your community.

Do you offer remote consulting services for municipalities outside your immediate area?

Absolutely. Feather Touch Consulting provides both in-person and remote consulting options to accommodate the needs of municipalities and townships throughout Illinois. Utilizing modern communication tools, we can deliver our full range of services remotely without compromising quality or effectiveness. This flexibility ensures that distance is not a barrier to receiving the expert assistance your municipality requires.

arial view of a highway interstate

Bridging the Gap with Your Community

Unpopular decisions can sometimes lead to community uneasiness. At Feather Touch Consulting, we specialize in guiding municipalities and townships through these challenging times. Our expertise in Community Relations helps you navigate public concerns, restore trust, and strengthen the bond with your residents. Let us assist you in turning challenges into opportunities for growth and unity.