On September 19, REALTORS® joined Vice Mayor Jan Michele Lemon Kearney—a REALTOR® herself—at the Build Forward Housing Conference, an event designed toengage builders, developers, and policymakers around the future of housing in Cincinnati.

As part of the conference, the REALTOR® Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC) hosted a dynamic panel discussion on the Ohio REALTORS® Tools for Development – Pattern Book. This innovative resource provides pre-approved housing designs that streamline the permitting process, reduce costs, and help communities add housing more efficiently.

The panel, moderated by RAGC’s Government Affairs Director, Mary Huttlinger, brought together key experts: Casey Terry, Greater Ohio Policy Center, lead developer of the Pattern Book, Art Dahlberg, City of Cincinnati Department of Buildings & Inspections, and Roy Hackworth, City of Cincinnati Department of Community & Economic Development.

Together, they shared insights on how the Pattern Book can be used to reduce barriers to development, encourage housing innovation, and ensure more attainable housing options for Cincinnati families.

What Leaders Had to Say

Mary Huttlinger, Government Affairs Director, RAGC

“This was a powerful conversation that shows what happens when REALTORS® lead the way. By bringing together policymakers, developers, and housing advocates, we are building real momentum toward practical solutions for our housing shortage.”

Darrick Dansby, REALTOR®, Event Organizer, and RAGC Advocacy Committee Member

“I was thrilled to see so many builders and community leaders come together for this important discussion. The Pattern Book is more than a tool—it’s a catalyst for change that can help us create more housing opportunities, faster and smarter.”

Looking Ahead

The Build Forward Housing Conference was more than just a conversation—it was the beginning of a stronger, more coordinated effort to address Cincinnati’s housing challenges. With the Pattern Book as a guide and REALTORS® leading the way, the future of housing in our community looks brighter.