Wallick at Ohio Housing Council’s Spring Symposium
Two weeks ago, Mike Ekis, Wallick’s Senior Vice President of Construction, joined industry experts at the Ohio Housing Council’s Spring Symposium for a panel discussion on navigating construction challenges in housing.
The event, held at the Ohio Statehouse, brought together leaders from across the state to address a wide range of housing-related topics. Much of the discussion centered on state and federal legislation that affects Wallick’s core business, while also exploring opportunities to influence policy decisions currently under consideration.
- Emily Cadik, CEO of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, opened the event with an update on federal advocacy efforts for the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act (AHCIA), which was reintroduced with 119 cosponsors.
- Bill Beagle, recently appointed Executive Director of the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), participated in the day’s sessions, shared remarks and contributed to ongoing conversations.
- Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel delivered the keynote, providing insights into his journey from education and athletics to public service, and emphasizing the state administration’s continued commitment to affordable housing.
Mike’s panel, “Breaking Barriers: Navigating Design and Construction Challenges in Housing,” explored challenges within the construction industry, with a specific focus on affordable housing. Topics included energy and building code changes, the effects of tariffs and inflation, labor shortages and financial challenges of development.
During the discussion, Mike highlighted the importance of Wallick’s longstanding partnership with OHFA and proposed a review of project financial caps to benefit builders across the industry. The panel was informative, well-received, and helped improve understanding for those less familiar with the construction side of affordable housing.
Overall, the OHC summit created space for meaningful dialogue with the key industry leaders and stakeholders essential to Wallick’s continued success.
Special thanks to Mike for representing Wallick and to the Ohio Housing Council for hosting an impactful event that helps move the conversation (and the work) forward.
