MAA President's Message
Season of Changes
Just as seasons change, so do people and the jobs they hold. If you're looking to take on a new role, look no further than the MAA website! Open positions can be found there - maybe one of them is your next job?
And, speaking of changing roles, you may know that for the past 1+ years, Heather Frick has been serving in a dual role as the Executive Director for the STC and as the Property Services Division Administrator. She is transitioning out of the Executive Director role into only the Property Services Division Administrator position. Heather will continue to be involved with our profession and will provide oversight on policy matters and future property tax initiatives. This leaves her position as Executive Director open while her replacement is found. I would like to wish her the best in this [new] role, and know that she will do a great job!
In other matters, the audit of MAA's accounting records is wrapping up. Based on what I've seen so far, the Board made an excellent choice by contracting with Stevens, Kirinovic & Tucker, PC to serve in this role. As with any set of "fresh eyes," they have brought to light things that have not been pointed out in the past. This includes things like written document retention and whistleblowers policies, just to name a couple. It does appear that our books are in order, and MAA has done a good job of tracking our activities - which is definitely welcome news!
MAA's Spring School will be underway shortly, and our Education Committee is finalizing the schedules for the Summer and Fall Schools. You may have noticed that there were a couple new classes offered for Spring - something MAA has been striving to do for quite a while. The Education Committee has made it a goal to offer at least two (2) new classes at each of the MAA schools. This is a welcome change, and will offer fresh courses for our members looking to get their continuing education hours. Remember, if you have an idea for a class - make a suggestion by contacting
Debbie Ring.
Also, MAA is offering another new class for those wishing to become instructors. The class will be held June 22 & 23, 2018, at Delta Township Hall, and there is no charge to participate. However, you must apply by May 11th and class size is limited to 20 students. So, if you even think you might be a good instructor, come see what it's all about!
As I've mentioned the past few months, the Conference Committee is diligently working toward an awesome conference (August 12-15, 2018) and things are coming together! It will be a great opportunity to try out some new classes, learn some new tips and tricks and meet a host of new people as well as connect with old friends! And don't forget - If you book your room AND register for the conference by June 30th, you will be entered in a drawing for a
FREE stay at the Park Place Hotel in Traverse City. The 2018 Annual Conference room block is open. For reservations, call (231)946-5000 (do
NOT use the toll-free number) and tell them you are with the Michigan Assessors Association. Online registration will be available on the website soon. I hope to see you there!
Amy L. DeHaan, President