A woman in a red shirt smiles from behind the screen of a laptop. The screen shows the Town of Plymouths onboardgov site

Can you believe it’s nearly the end of the year already?! December can feel like a whirlwind, but it’s also the perfect time to pause, catch your breath, and get ready for the year ahead. A little prep work now means a smoother start for you, your boards, and your community in the new year. Here are ten simple things you can tackle this month to set yourself up for success in 2026:

1. Wrap Up 2025 Minutes and Agendas

Don’t let unfinished business follow you into the new year. Make sure all minutes are approved, signed, and filed where they belong.

2. Archive and Back Up Your Files

Clear out the 2025 folder! Store and back up records so they’re safe, secure, and easy to find when someone asks for them in March.

3. Post the 2026 Meeting Calendars

Double-check dates with your boards and committees, then share the full schedule early—residents will thank you.

4. Freshen Up Templates

Give your agenda and minutes templates a quick polish. It’s amazing how much easier your job feels when forms are up to date.

5. Check Rosters and Terms

Who’s in, who’s out, and who’s up for reappointment? Knowing now helps you welcome new members smoothly in January. (If you’re using OnBoardGOV, you already know).

6. Update Contact Lists

A quick round of “is this still your best email?” can save you a lot of frustration when deadlines roll around. Updating information in OnBoardGOV means only doing it once, no matter how many boards the member is on.

7. Schedule Annual Notices

Get a jump on required postings like annual meeting schedules or open meetings reminders. Set them up now, and you can relax later.

8. Test Your Tech

Whether it’s Zoom, microphones, or other software—give everything a test run before the new year. Future you will be grateful.

9. Reflect on 2025

What slowed you down? What worked really well? A few notes now can help you streamline how you work in 2026.

10. Plan for Your Own Growth

Don’t forget yourself! Look at upcoming trainings or conferences and get them on your calendar before it fills up.

Here’s a printable version as well.

December might be busy, but it’s also your chance to set the tone for the year ahead. Tidy up 2025, set the stage for 2026, and head into January feeling organized and ready.