Your board of directors continues to provide direction and guidance to the association. Together with the hard work and due diligence of the various committees, the board focuses on issues that affect the membership as a whole, and strives to create significant results in areas such as governance, transparency and efficiency. As we approach the half-way mark of the year, ongoing projects such as the new website development and governance review continue with further refinement and scrutiny, while other files such as digital advertising policies are reviewed for final consideration.
Governance and By-law Review
The significant undertaking to evaluate WinnipegREALTORS® current governance structure continues. This in-depth review of the association’s Constitution and By-Laws and committee structures will ensure our association complies with civil and criminal law and the regulatory environment and reflect best-practices for the real estate industry. Future communication pieces will be delivered to the membership via special e-bulletins and articles.
MREA
MREA has successfully lobbied to change the wording in one of the clauses in the Real Estate Services Act. The wording, if left unchanged, would significantly impact the sustainability of the Reimbursement Fund. This change has been brought forward as an amendment to RESA and is currently in the legislative review process. The Real Estate Services Act will likely come into effect in December, 2018.
CREA
CREA has been active in articulating its concerns regarding the implications for human and housing health with the impending legalization of cannabis. Michael Bourque, CREA CEO, has appeared before the Social Affairs, Science and Technology Senate Committee to discuss these concerns.
CREA continues to lobby against further changes to the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA), instead encouraging the government to provide increased clarity and guidance to REALTORS® to ensure their compliance with FINTRAC regulations.
REN/PR
In advance of the new Winnipeg Real Estate News website due for release this fall, a comprehensive Digital Advertising Policy has been drafted and approved by the Board of Directors. New on-line marketing opportunities, such as banners and highlighted listings, will be communicated to the membership as the launch date draws closer.
Technology
A motion to improve the Matrix Client Portal display to include condo fees, along with details of what the fees entail has been reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors. Staff will develop a requirements request for Corelogic for implementation.