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Housing Ohio Featured at National GAD Institute in Columbus

Housing Ohio Featured at National GAD Institute in Columbus

Aug 3, 2026

By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Director of Advocacy & Research

Government affairs professionals from REALTOR® associations across the country recently gathered in Columbus for the National Association of REALTORS® Government Affairs Directors (GAD) Institute, the association’s premier annual conference for advocacy professionals.

The annual conference brings together government affairs professionals from state and local REALTOR® associations to discuss the issues shaping real estate advocacy. This year's conference also gave attendees an opportunity to see firsthand how Ohio is approaching one of the nation's most pressing challenges: increasing the supply of attainable housing. 

Ohio REALTORS® Assistant Vice President of External Engagement Veronica Cardello served as a featured panelist and moderator for "Blueprint for Housing: How Communities Are Accelerating Housing Development." The session highlighted Housing Ohio | Tools for Development, a joint initiative created by Ohio REALTORS® and the Greater Ohio Policy Center that provides communities with practical resources to reduce barriers to housing development and expand housing opportunities.

Cardello was joined by Alison Goebel, Executive Director of the Greater Ohio Policy Center, and Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith to discuss how communities are putting those tools into action. The panel explored the benefits of pre-approved housing plans, zoning modernization, permitting improvements, and regional collaboration to help communities respond more quickly to local housing needs.

The discussion showcased how Ohio communities are turning innovative housing ideas into action. As housing affordability and supply remain top priorities nationwide, Housing Ohio | Tools for Development is providing communities with practical strategies to increase housing opportunities, and Ohio REALTORS® is proud to help lead that work.

Anastasia Kotkovskaya

Anastasia Kotkovskaya

Director, Advocacy & Research

Supports Ohio REALTORS®’ legislative, regulatory, and political initiatives at the Ohio Statehouse, conducting public policy research, collaborating with stakeholders, and developing advocacy resources to keep members informed of advocacy efforts. She provides regular legislative updates through Capitol Connections and The Latest Political Buzz, and hosts the Policy Talks podcast to provide insights on key political developments. She also serves as the staff liaison for the Political Advocacy Fund Committee.

Learn more about Anastasia & her role.

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