North Cincy News

Cincinnati Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney recently participated in a Meet & Greet with members of the REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC). The event aimed to address real-world challenges faced by REALTORS and explore potential partnerships.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the City’s American Dream Down Payment Initiative (ADDI) and its inspection process. David Welch noted that additional inspections, particularly for multiple units, cause unnecessary delays. Patty Hoff highlighted that the City of Cincinnati requires two sets of underwriting requirements, extending closing times to 50–55 days. “It’s not about education anymore,” she stated. “It’s the process that’s broken.”

Ray Cook called for increased efficiencies, while Sandy Butler and others pointed out redundancies preventing new homebuyers from accessing city resources. A member mentioned issues with unmonitored voicemails from referred City inspectors. The consensus was clear: there is a need for one inspection, one process, and a straightforward path to homeownership.

Vice Mayor Kearney proposed a follow-up meeting with Markiea Carter, Director of the Department of Community and Economic Development, to explore systemic improvements. A revived Ambassador Program was suggested to enhance communication between REALTORS and city officials.

The discussion also touched on promoting Ohio REALTORS Pattern Book as a tool for neighborhood-compatible infill housing development. The RAGC Advocacy Committee plans to present this resource to City Council later this summer.

Language used in housing discussions was another topic raised by commercial REALTORS. Terms like “workforce” and “attainable” were suggested as more effective than “affordable” when advocating for housing solutions targeting those earning 30–60% AMI.

Vice Mayor Kearney emphasized strategies supporting connected communities, especially benefiting the 20% of Cincinnatians who do not drive. Concerns remain about preserving neighborhood character while accommodating growth through density, walkability, and transit access.

Heather Kopf, 2025 Advocacy Chair, remarked on the engagement of REALTORS in shaping housing policy: “We’ll be sending Vice Mayor Lemon Kearney our Red Tape Survey results and following up on the actionable ideas that emerged.” She expressed gratitude for the contributions made during the event.

Updates on initiatives such as the Pattern Book presentation and meetings with Markiea Carter are forthcoming. Those interested in participating can contact Mary Huttlinger, RAGC Government Affairs Director.