This week, members of the REALTOR® Alliance of Greater Cincinnati Advocacy Committee had the opportunity to meet with Hamilton County Administrator Jeff Aluotto and members of his leadership team for a positive and productive introductory conversation focused on relationship-building, collaboration, and community impact.

The meeting created space for an open and candid discussion about the work happening at the county level, the challenges local government is navigating, and the ways REALTORS® can serve as trusted partners and communicators throughout our region.

The conversation covered a wide range of topics, including:

One of the most valuable takeaways from the discussion was gaining greater insight into the complexity behind certain levies and tax structures. It became clear that some financial pressures facing local governments are tied to federal unfunded mandates, creating ripple effects at the local level.

Rather than simply identifying challenges, the group focused on solutions.

Committee members discussed how REALTORS®, county leadership, and community stakeholders may be able to work together over time to identify areas where meaningful progress can be made — even if it happens one step at a time. The conversation reinforced the importance of maintaining open communication, building relationships before challenges arise, and bringing diverse voices to the table.

This is advocacy in action.

REALTORS® are uniquely positioned as connectors, communicators, and early warning sensors within the community. By engaging directly with decision-makers and working collaboratively toward practical solutions, we can help strengthen housing opportunities, improve public understanding, and support policies that benefit homeowners, property owners, and the broader community.

Thank you to Hamilton County leadership for the warm welcome, thoughtful discussion, and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. We look forward to continuing the conversation and building on the momentum from this meeting.

“Strong communities are built through relationships, communication, and a willingness to work together. Today’s conversation with Hamilton County leadership was an important reminder that REALTORS® have a valuable role to play beyond the transaction — helping connect people, share information, and advocate for thoughtful solutions that strengthen homeownership and our region as a whole. We left energized by the collaboration, the openness of the discussion, and the opportunities ahead.”
— Marie Simon, RAGC Board Director & Liaison to the Advocacy Committee

“Advocacy works best when relationships come first. Today’s conversation with Hamilton County leadership was exactly the kind of collaborative, solutions-focused dialogue that helps move communities forward. REALTORS® bring a unique perspective because we see how policies, taxes, housing supply, and affordability impact people in real time. What was especially encouraging was the shared willingness to explore challenges together — not just identify them — and to think creatively about how we can collectively chip away at barriers over time for the benefit of homeowners and the broader community.”
— Mary Huttlinger, Government Affairs Director, REALTOR® Alliance of Greater Cincinnati