Examining housing needs, opportunities across region

HURON TWP. — The Greater Sandusky Partnership convened nearly 150 public, private and nonprofit leaders for its Regional Housing Symposium, which occurred on Jan. 29 at the Sandusky-area Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. The event brought together many different people and entities — which included real estate professionals, builders and developers, philanthropic organizations, financial institutions, economic development organizations and community leaders — to examine housing needs and opportunities across the region. A central feature of the symposium was the unveiling of the Greater Sandusky Partnership's residential development strategic plan, presented by Matt Lasko, the partnership's chief development officer. The plan outlines a series of actionable strategies aimed at addressing the region's documented need for new housing units across a range of types and price points while improving the region's competitiveness for private investment and state and federal resources. "This symposium reflects the growing recognition that housing is a regional issue that directly impacts workforce availability, economic growth and long-term community vitality," said Eric Wobser, CEO of the Greater Sandusky Partnership. "By bringing diverse partners to the same table, we're working to better understand the barriers to housing development and identify practical ways to move projects forward at the scale our region needs," Wobser said. The residential development strategic plan builds on insights from a regional housing charrette taking place in 2025, housing data from prior studies and examples of successful interventions used elsewhere in Ohio. It highlights 10 strategies, which include: • Site and land inventory development • Land and building banking • Zoning and planning amendments • Expanded use of tax increment financing • Impact investing • Improved access to state and federal housing programs "The plan is intended to be a flexible, practical resource that communities can use based on their local context," Lasko said. "There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but the data makes clear that status quo approaches are not delivering housing at the scale required," Lasko added. "This plan encourages our region to think differently and position itself more competitively for development and investment." The program also featured a keynote address from Kevin Nowak, president and CEO of CHN Housing Partners, along with case studies highlighting local housing tools and workforce housing development. A panel discussion featuring regional economic development and public-sector leaders concluded the morning, reinforcing the importance of collaboration across sectors and jurisdictions. Support for the symposium and the broader housing initiative was provided by the Erie County Community Foundation. "Housing stability is foundational to strong, resilient communities," said Beth Maiden, president and CEO of the Erie County Community Foundation. "Supporting opportunities for informed dialogue and collaboration helps create the conditions necessary for long-term, community-driven solutions." The event was made possible with support from event sponsors, including PNC Bank, Directions Credit Union, Mary Giles Sells Homes, All Things Kozy and First National Bank. The residential development strategic plan is available on the Greater Sandusky Partnership website greatersandusky.com/residential-development-strategic-plan.