UPDATE

Lee Tomkins, M.I.M.A. - District 2 Director

IMA’s membership actively supports and advances our shared profession through our ten districts across Canada. This new regular feature will highlight the important work of our districts across the country.

For this issue, we asked District 2 Director Lee Tomkins, M.I.M.A., to share an update on their activities. District 2 represent the major centres in Ontario of Niagara, Hamilton-Wentworth, Haldimand-Norfolk, Waterloo, and the Counties of Brant, Dufferin and Wellington

What is your District currently focused on?

We are currently in the planning stages for our next meeting which will take place in early spring of 2024. We are building on the successes of our last district meeting held in Hamilton on May 31st, our first in-person meeting since the Pandemic. Topics of the meeting included an Appraiser discussing local trends of various property types, an informative session on current and relevant ARB Cases and a very interesting session on vertical farming and the valuation complexities that come along with those property types. The sessions were very well received and generated a great deal of discussion from our participants. We plan to continue with another in-person program for our upcoming spring meeting which will be held at one of the City of Hamilton historic sites. We hope you can join us!

Why do you think the work you do at a District level is important?

I believe it is essential that we stay connected. Planning in-person events with our District Executive on upcoming programs which focus on new appraisal tools and other technological innovations is valued by our members, especially for those who may not be able to attend the annual Conference. Working with the IMA Executive and District Directors is vital, and I am able to collaborate and bring exciting new presenters to our district with a focus on local market trends incorporating the latest industry standards. Whether you work for the assessment authority, private sector, or local government, the presentations are informative and stimulate in-depth discussions.

From your District’s perspective, what are you looking forward to in 2024?

In 2024, I am looking to re-connect with our members and develop new relationships. I also encourage members from other districts to join us at our Spring meeting. Post-pandemic, we must engage with the next generation of assessment and appraisal professionals and assist with their professional development through meaningful experiences. While it remains important for our existing members to fulfill their CPD requirements, we must also assist our new colleagues on their accreditation journey. Our industry is complex and constantly evolving, our District will keep members current and professionally recognized.

Visit the IMA website to learn more about district membership.