On Monday, March 17th, Mark Kimzey presented a thought-provoking session at the Illinois Property Assessment Institute (IPAI) on Understanding the Separation of Powers in Township Governance and Its Impact on the Role of Property Assessors. This presentation examined the distinct authority of township officials and the township board, with a particular focus on the statutory powers of the township assessor and the board’s control over budgeting and employment decisions. Mark provided attendees with a practical analysis of how these separate powers interact, highlighting potential areas of conflict and offering strategies for assessors to navigate governance challenges effectively. He discussed key issues such as funding constraints, personnel decisions, and the implications of board oversight on the assessor’s ability to fulfill statutory duties. Through interactive discussion and case studies, participants left the session with a clearer understanding of township governance and actionable strategies for handling conflicts related to budgeting, staffing, and operational authority.
On Tuesday, March 18th, attorney Mark Kimzey delivered a compelling presentation at the Illinois Property Assessment Institute (IPAI) State Conference on Conducting Field Work: Rights, Risks, and Best Practices, addressing the evolving legal challenges that assessors face when conducting field work. With the rapidly changing social and legal landscape, Mark covered the crucial issues of accessing private property, navigating "no trespass" signs, dealing with denials of entry, and managing privacy concerns like photography. He provided practical strategies for assessors to handle these situations while minimizing legal risks and liability. Emphasizing the importance of staying informed on the latest legal developments, Mark’s session equipped attendees with the tools to confidently navigate these complex legal matters, helping them ensure that their offices remain compliant and well-prepared to handle the intricacies of field assessments. His insights were invaluable for those looking to mitigate potential risks and maintain ethical standards in their work.