affordable-housing-trust

Staff Updates: Strengthening Our Financial Team

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:33:19 GMT

AHT is pleased to share two exciting updates to our finance team that reflect our continued commitment to organizational excellence and mission-driven growth.

Brian McClellan Promoted to Chief Financial Officer

Effective January 2026, Brian has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer. This title better reflects both the scope of his contributions and AHT's standing among our CDFI peers. This promotion also supports AHT's adoption of the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) framework as we work to integrate that structure organization-wide.

Brian brings over 25 years of experience leading finance, accounting, and operations across publicly held companies, entrepreneurial growth businesses, and mission-driven nonprofit organizations. His background spans both traditional corporate environments and impact-focused lending, and he has spent the past three years with AHT deepening our work in the CDFI lending space.

In his expanded role, Brian leads financial strategy, cash flow forecasting, budget development, and the annual audit, while managing lending capital, funding sources, and credit facilities to support sustainable growth. He also directs accounting operations, including financial reporting, internal controls, and grants compliance, and works to align financial strategy with organizational impact. Through financial analysis, risk management, and capital stewardship, Brian supports informed decision-making and advances AHT's affordable housing and community investment initiatives. He holds a B.A. in Economics from Harvard University.

Welcoming Jay Conroy as Controller

We are equally excited to welcome Jay Conroy to the AHT team as our new Controller.

Jay graduated from Miami University (Ohio) in 2011 with a Master of Accounting. Shortly after graduating, Jay successfully passed the CPA exam and began his career in public accounting with Deloitte. After gaining about 5 years of experience in public accounting, Jay moved to industry with a focus on financial services.

Jay has amassed a valuable variety of financial services experience with his most recent role before joining AHT being with KEMBA Financial Credit Union.

Together, Brian and Jay represent a strong and experienced financial leadership team; one that is well-positioned to support AHT's operational health, uphold our commitment to transparency and compliance, and advance the mission of expanding affordable housing and community investment. A strong financial foundation is essential to everything we do, and we are confident this team will help AHT continue to grow with both integrity and impact.

A Year of Purpose, Progress, and Promise by Ian Labitue

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:21:12 GMT

A Message from the President & CEO, Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County

When I stepped into this role a year ago, I did so with a deep sense of responsibility and an equally deep sense of optimism. The Affordable Housing Trust has spent more than two decades as a steadfast force for good in Central Ohio, and I am honored to carry that legacy forward.

Recently, I attended a book release event for Columbus's own Wil Haygood, one of our country's most celebrated writers. During the event, he shared a story from early in his career about approaching James Baldwin with a bold question: "Am I going to be a great author someday?" Baldwin's response was characteristically direct: "How should I know? I don't even know you." But he followed it with advice that has stayed with Haygood throughout his remarkable career, and that now resonates with me as I reflect on this first year: "You have to go the way your blood beats."

Looking back, I can see how my own path has followed that rhythm. From finance to real estate law, from real estate development to government affairs and advocacy, each chapter has introduced me to mentors, partners and teammates who have shaped how I think about this work. More than that, each step prepared me for the challenge, and the privilege, of leading this organization at this moment.

As I reflect on this first year, I find myself genuinely moved by how much we have accomplished together. And I’m equally energized by the work that still lies ahead.

The Landscape: Affordable Housing in Central Ohio

Central Ohio continues to grow at a pace matched by few regions in the country. Columbus remains one of the fastest-growing metros in the Midwest, and with that growth comes increasing pressure on housing affordability. Rising land costs, construction inflation, and increasing demand have widened the gap between what working families can afford and what the market provides. The region's affordable housing deficit, particularly for households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income, remains a defining challenge facing our community.

Even so, AHT’s work continued to make a tangible difference. In 2025, the organization closed $39.7 million in loans and supported the development of 1,385 units across Central Ohio, helping expand housing opportunities for families across our region.

At the same time, there is cause for cautious optimism. Awareness of the affordable housing crisis has never been higher among policymakers, funders, and community stakeholders. New tools, new partnerships, and a growing civic will to act are creating openings that were far less visible just a few years ago. AHT is uniquely positioned to help translate that momentum into real homes, real opportunity, and lasting impact for families across Columbus and Franklin County.

Gratitude: A Foundation Built by Many

None of what has been accomplished over the past year would have been possible without the extraordinary people who make this organization what it is. The Board of Trustees provided steady guidance and thoughtful oversight throughout the transition, continuing to lead with the wisdom and commitment that make AHT's governance one of its greatest strengths. The talented, dedicated, and mission-driven staff of AHT embraced change with professionalism and grace, never losing sight of the communities we serve.

Earlier, I mentioned the mentors, partners, and teammates my career path has introduced me to along the way. That description fits this board and this staff perfectly. This first year has deepened my appreciation for both, and I am grateful to work alongside such a remarkable group of people.

Year One Highlights

One of the most meaningful investments we made this year was adopting the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) as our organizational framework. This approach has given us a shared language, clearer accountability, and a more disciplined approach to executing on our vision. From establishing our core values to building out our meeting rhythms and tracking measurables, the system has helped us operate with greater alignment and intentionality.

Implementing this framework required meaningful effort across the organization. Change rarely comes easily, but the team embraced the process wholeheartedly. I am already seeing the dividends in how we plan, communicate and deliver results.

Beyond our lending activity, we made a deliberate commitment this year to elevating AHT's voice in the broader conversation about affordable housing solutions. We are not just a lender. We are also a partner, a convener, and increasingly, a thought leader. That means showing up at the tables where policy is shaped, contributing research and perspective on what's working and what isn't, and helping frame the narrative around what it will truly take to solve the affordable housing crisis in our communities. This work is ongoing, and it is one of the areas I am most excited to build upon in the years ahead.

Looking Forward

A first year is, above all, a foundation. I believe we have begun to build a strong one, grounded in trust, strengthened by new tools, and pointed toward a vision that is both ambitious and achievable.

Baldwin's advice to Haygood at the beginning of his writing journey was not a promise of success; it was an invitation to authenticity, to follow the work that calls to you and trust the path it reveals. For AHT, the path forward is clear: deploy more capital, support more development, and help more families find stable, affordable homes so that they can access opportunity. The need in our community is urgent, and AHT will continue to rise to meet it.

Thank you for your continued belief in this organization and in the work we do together. I look forward to what we will build for Central Ohio, and for the families who call it home.

With gratitude,

Ian Labitue

President & CEO Affordable Housing Trust
for Columbus and Franklin County

AHT Board Updates: Celebrating Legacy and Embracing the Future

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:11:12 GMT

As AHT recognizes the retirement of two long-serving board members, the organization also welcomes new expertise and perspective to help advance its mission of strengthening communities and creating pathways to stable, affordable housing.

AHT closes the year with a full heart, reflecting on the incredible contributions of two founding board members and looking ahead with great excitement to new leadership joining our mission.

After more than two decades of unwavering commitment, Bill Faith and Hal Keller have retired from AHT's Board of Directors. Both Bill and Hal have served on our board since AHT's inception in 2001, and their impact on this organization simply cannot be overstated. They are true experts in the field of affordable housing, and their impressive careers stand as a testament to their deep dedication to ensuring that affordable housing remains a priority in Columbus and Franklin County. AHT is what it is today in no small part because of their vision, guidance, and steadfast support over the years. We are profoundly grateful for everything they have given to this organization and to our community. Their legacy will continue to be felt in every family that finds a safe, affordable place to call home.

As we say farewell to two beloved board members, we are also thrilled to welcome Myia Batie to AHT's Board of Directors. Myia currently serves as Senior Vice President of Development at TFG Housing Resources, LLC and President of TFG Development Advisors, LLC. She brings a remarkable depth of experience in affordable housing finance and development, having previously led Enterprise Community Partners' national Equitable Path Forward initiative, where she supported more than 80 minority business enterprise developers and helped deploy $346 million in capital. Her background also includes significant work at Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing and the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, where she built expertise across LIHTC, Section 8, RAD, FHA and permanent supportive housing programs. A recognized Young Leader in affordable housing, Myia holds a Master's Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor's Degree in Community and Regional Planning from Iowa State University.

AHT is truly excited to welcome Myia to our board. Her expertise, passion, and proven commitment to equitable housing solutions will be an extraordinary asset as we continue to advance our mission, and we know she will make a wonderful contribution to our work for years to come.

EDAP Program Update: First Phase of Evaluation Complete

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:49:00 GMT

AHT advances its strategic review of the EDAP to ensure the program continues to effectively support emerging developers across Columbus and Franklin County

The Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) remains paused for new participants as AHT works through a comprehensive evaluation of the program's design, long-term sustainability, and alignment with the evolving needs of emerging developers across Columbus and Franklin County. We are pleased to share that the first phase of that evaluation is now complete.

To lead this work, AHT engaged Inspire and Illuminology, recognized specialists in research, public relations, and marketing for nonprofits, financial institutions, and real estate organizations. Their research conducted August–September 2025, included a quantitative stakeholder survey distributed to 119 participants (achieving a 50% response rate), nearly 30 in-depth interviews with AHT staff, board members, community leaders, and program alumni, and a peer program analysis benchmarking the EDAP against comparable models in other markets.

The insights gathered through this process are now actively informing our thinking as we assess what the path forward for what the EDAP may look like.

While the formal program is paused, our commitment to the EDAP's alumni and mission has not wavered. AHT continues to support past participants through technical assistance, continuing education, and access to lending opportunities.

Building Small Event Series (November 2025) — In partnership with the City of Columbus and Urban Land Institute, AHT hosted a multi-day event series featuring Jim Heid, founder of Building Small and a nationally recognized leader in small-scale, community-based development. The series included a public keynote and a hands-on, full-day developer workshop designed specifically for the EDAP graduates and early-stage practitioners, focused on real-world case studies, financial modeling, and applied project design.

Duplex Documentary Screening — AHT hosted a screening of United: The Hidden Story of the Humble Duplex, a 2025 short documentary produced by Carlie Boos of the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio (AHACO). The film explored the role of small-scale infill development in expanding affordable housing supply, offering alumni a compelling look at the history and potential of duplex development in communities like ours. A special thank you to Carlie for joining us afterward to facilitate a rich discussion with attendees.

Land Bank Training Session (February 2026) — AHT hosted a focused continuing education session for the EDAP alumni in partnership with the City of Columbus Division of Real Estate and Land Redevelopment. Approximately 20 alumni participated in a hands-on walkthrough of the City Land Bank parcel application process, covering project readiness, affordability-focused programs, application requirements, and how AHT can provide technical assistance and lending support throughout the process.

As we move through the next phase of this evaluation, our priority is to ensure that any future version of the EDAP is stronger, more sustainable, and delivers maximum impact. Both for program participants and for the residents who will call their projects home. We will use the data gathered to hold ourselves accountable to our community and stakeholders. We remain committed to transparent and timely communication and will share updates as soon as next steps are determined.

2023 Wrap Up

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 19:19:31 GMT

Leveraging Our Impact

Greetings,

2023 proved to be a significant year for AHT. In the last year AHT has been intentional about leveraging the impact of our institution in sustainable and meaningful ways to advance and increase access to affordable housing in our local communities.

AHT was established over 20 years ago and our commitment to addressing the critical need for affordable housing has been unwavering. As the affordable housing requirements of our communities have changed, AHT has adapted to meet these demands. Through the establishment of new programs to closing additional funds that bolster capital in innovative ways to better leverage public and private dollars to successfully stabilize and expand housing efforts.

It is with pride and excitement that I share a few highlights that illustrate AHT’s impact on the affordable housing ecosystem in Central Ohio:

Emerging Developers Accelerator Program :

Secured another $500k from Chase
Second cohort graduated in October and third cohort is halfway through the program
Deployed $7.5MM in loans, plus $427k in soft loans
Created or preserved 79 units

Housing Action Fund :

Closed + committed + pipeline is in excess of $100MM

AHT Regional Impact Fund :

Closed $65MM fund in October allowing AHT to expand lending footprint 8 counties in the region
Established new relationships with the State of Ohio Department of Development, Crane Group, First Financial and KeyBank

CDFI :

AHT awarded $3.5MM in CDFI ERP dollars
$4.5MM CDFI Fund Capital Magnet Fund Awarded to AHT

AHT Grant Program :

At the conclusion of 2023 AHT has awarded over $500,000 supporting 12 organizations

AHT’s mission remains central to our agenda in 2024. Central Ohio is on the verge of rapid growth and development. The production of affordable housing units is only one part of the solution in transforming underserved communities. For affordable housing initiatives to be successful, these efforts must be accompanied by other sustainability and community focused programs.

Access to decent, stable, and affordable housing provides critical stability for families and individuals. When people have affordable housing options it creates a larger positive economic impact for the whole community.

Project Highlight

McKinley Manor is a 44-unit affordable housing community that will serve low-income seniors. The $14MM project leverages public and private investors including the City of Columbus, Franklin County, the Ohio Housing Financing Agency, Marble Cliff Capital, Park National Bank and AHT. The project held a grand opening earlier this month and will offer permanent supportive housing for residents.

AHT Staff Spotlight

Welcome Michelle, Janie, Kiana and Tyler!

As AHT continues to grow we have also worked to scale staff to meet that growth. This has included developing current staff as well as hiring new talent. Over the past six months AHT has welcomed several new staff with professional skills and expertise to support and enhance existing systems and processes and develop new strategies to be prepared for sustainable growth in the future.

AHT In The News

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email our Director of Lending David Butcher: david@hztrust.org

Broadening Our Impact

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 19:05:21 GMT

AHT Regional Impact Fund

Last month AHT, in collaboration with key investors, unveiled the AHT Regional Impact Fund to increase the number of housing units in Central Ohio. Championed by AHT, investors include CareSource, Crane Group, First Financial, Huntington National Bank, KeyBank, Licking County Housing Investment Fund, LLC, Nationwide, Ohio Capital Finance Corporation (OCFC), Park National, PNC Bank, and the Ohio Department of Development, this groundbreaking initiative aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the region.

Central Ohio is on the verge of rapid growth and development. We have all heard the numbers and read the reports. They tell us that almost half of Ohioans are housing cost-burdened. We also know that we aren’t building enough units for our current residents let alone the new population expected.

This fund will provide a flexible source of financing that will expand the resources available for investment in affordable housing development on a regional level. The fund will provide below-market loans to developers who commit to the fund’s affordability criteria that will increase and preserve the number of affordable rental homes in eight central Ohio counties. This innovative financing mechanism provides a creative way to leverage public and private dollars to successfully stabilize and expand housing regionally.

“We are taking the bold step to go regional as we recognize the importance of expanding our work around housing affordability beyond Franklin County,” said Lark Mallory, President and CEO of the Affordable Housing Trust. “This fund symbolizes a shared commitment among our partners and investors to confront the housing challenges facing our communities. By providing a flexible and substantial capital source, we are empowering the Affordable Housing Trust to impact the lives of others for generations to come.

It is imperative that we engage housing solutions with a comprehensive and holistic approach. The ultimate objective is to further the successes of affordable housing initiatives in Columbus and Franklin County and beyond. The affordable housing ecosystem is constantly evolving, and organizations must adapt and think more broadly as the community strives to find solutions for the housing challenges we face.

CEO Reflections

AHT Past Present Future

Last week AHT hosted an event to celebrate the past present and future of the Trust. AHT was established in 2001 and in our 22 years we have closed loans totaling over $300 million an investment which has funded the creation or preservation of over 14,200 units of affordable housing. The larger impact of these investments reaches far behind loan dollars and units of housing.

In addition to celebrating all AHT has accomplished we also acknowledged our gratitude to outgoing Board Chair, Robert Weiler. Mr. Weiler has served on the Board since 2001 as a founding member and as chair since 2018. AHT Board and Staff thank Bob for his dedicated service on the Board and his personal contributions to advancing the mission of AHT.

We also extend a special congratulations to Lauren Hagan who will serve as our Board Chair beginning in 2024. Lauren is the Chief Financial Officer for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. She has served on AHT’s Board since 2021. We thank Lauren for her enthusiasm to support and help lead AHT into the future.

AHT In The News

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email our Director of Lending David Butcher: david@hztrust.org

It's Our Anniversary

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:20:52 GMT

In September, AHT celebrated its anniversary. You may not know it, but 23 years ago AHT was established at the recommendation of the Columbus Housing Task Force, convened in 2000 by then Mayor Michael B. Coleman and chaired by James Bowman and Warren Tyler. At that time Columbus and Franklin County were faced with many housing issues.

The Task Force found that Columbus didn’t have deep poverty problems or huge slums, but a sizable amount of local housing had deteriorated. This resulted in low-income families paying high rents for substandard housing, a lack of supportive housing for special needs populations, and enduring shortfall in housing for the workforce population. Simply put, Columbus was growing and there was not enough decent affordable housing to accommodate low to moderate income residents.

The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County (AHT) was born out of a direct recommendation of that 2000 Task Force. AHT worked on the supply side of the housing solution, as an investor, lender and facilitator for the production of affordable new homes and apartments, and for the rehabilitation of existing residential buildings.

Over the years AHT has worked to adapt to ever-changing housing needs in Columbus and Franklin County. In February 2016, AHT became a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This designation allows us to leverage awarded dollars to fund housing for our most vulnerable populations. Our most recent CDFI award will also allow us to expand our mission beyond Columbus and Franklin County. While we know there is still work to be done in Franklin County, we also know that housing is a regional issue.

In 2019 AHT worked with 14 business and non-profit investors to create the Housing Action Fund (HAF), a $100 million fund to be used as a financial tool to fill the affordable housing gap in Columbus and Franklin County. By providing below-market loans to developers who commit to the Fund’s affordability criteria, the HAF will increase and preserve the number of affordable rental homes in Franklin County.

AHT recognizes that the production of affordable housing units is only one part of the solution in transforming underserved communities. For affordable housing initiatives to be successful, these efforts must be accompanied by other sustainability and community focused programs. To that end AHT created the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) and AHT’s Grant Program for Housing Innovation. The EDAP is AHT’s 6-month training program that supports developers who are women and people of color with comprehensive technical assistance, education, and access to capital to help build and preserve affordable housing. In addition to providing participants with the opportunity to accelerate their businesses and close the racial wealth gap, the program helps increase the supply of affordable housing units throughout the Central Ohio community.

AHT’s Grant Program for Housing Innovation funds home repairs and subsidizes housing-related initiatives for eligible nonprofits. Home repair grants specifically address exterior or interior home repairs to improve health and safety, accessibility, and code violation concerns, while non-production grants help support initiatives for already existing housing. We recognize that we must preserve what currently exists.

Yes, we have undertaken a developers training program and a grant program, yet lending remains our key focus. Since our founding AHT has closed loans totaling over $300 million which has funded the creation or preservation of over 14,200 units of affordable housing. The larger impact of these investments reaches far behind loan dollars and units of housing.

Ok, Lark, AHT has done good work at AHT, but why the history lesson?? Because the work is not done. Our regional housing needs continue to grow. Columbus is experiencing record population growth. We are the fastest growing region in the Midwest. This increasing demand results in both rising rents and increasing property values and property taxes.

According to the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio, Central Ohio must build nearly 19,000 housing units per year to accommodate the projected population growth. In 2022, with an estimated 12,000 housing permits issued, we exceeded expectations but still missed the goal. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) reported in 2019 that roughly half of all Ohioans were housing cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of their income on housing), and the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio found in 2017 that there was only one affordable rental unit for every three renters in poverty in Franklin County. The work of AHT is as pressing today as it was 23 years ago, if not more so !

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, David Butcher at david@hztrust.org

Forging Ahead

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:58:03 GMT

Project Highlight - Ebright Road

AHT is providing funding to The Daimler Group for the development of Ebright Road Apartments. This project will represent the new construction of 198 units of general occupancy rental housing situated in nine three-story walkup buildings.

The one-, two-, and three-bedroom garden/flat units will feature well-equipped kitchens with appliances including: an electric range, refrigerator with icemaker, dishwasher, microwave oven, and garbage disposal. Other unit amenities will include faux wood/vinyl plank flooring, window blinds, central air conditioning, washer/dryer, patio/balcony, and walk-in closets in the master bedrooms.

Ebright Road Apartments will also feature a community clubhouse with on-site management, a community activity room, fitness center, and a coffee bar. The clubhouse will be adjacent to a community pool. Other outdoor amenities include a picnic/barbecue area, a dog park, and a walking trail.

The project is located in Franklin County in Canal Winchester. This development will provide much needed units of housing for Franklin County’s moderate to low income households.

CEO Reflections

AHT is Hiring

EDAP Updates

The Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) was established by AHT in 2022. The EDAP is a 6-month training program that supports developers who are women and people of color with comprehensive technical assistance, education, and access to capital to help build and preserve affordable housing. In addition to providing participants with the opportunity to accelerate their businesses and close the racial wealth gap, the program is also helping increase the supply of affordable housing units throughout the Central Ohio community. Below is an outline of some of the tangible accomplishments of the program and it’s participants to date.

o 11 participants to date have worked with AHT to secure capital for their projects

o AHT has made loans in the amount of $6.8 million to EDAP participants

o Over $384,000 in equity disbursed to projects from Franklin County

o Over 75 units created or preserved to date

As our community continues to work towards new and innovative solutions for housing our neighbors, AHT is proud to serve as a partner on these efforts. Every single housing unit matters.

AHT In The News

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email our Director of Lending David Butcher: david@hztrust.org

Birthday Wish

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 17:14:00 GMT

This month I am celebrating my birthday. And so, it seems fitting to indulge with a little birthday wish.

I want people to understand what we mean when we say affordable housing .

Now before you stop reading because you don’t think this is an issue that impacts you… stick with me.

Here’s what we know. Central Ohio is experiencing a housing crisis. But what many may not understand is what we mean by affordable housing.

Affordable housing is defined as an individual or family paying no more than 30% of their household income on housing.

What is cost burdened housing?

A household paying half or more of its income on housing – often leaving people unable to pay for other necessary items, like food or medical supplies.

We all need access to affordable housing. Everyone from workers making minimum wage to fixed-income seniors to high earners and recent graduates.

What is AMI and how does it play a role in affordable housing?

Leaders need a way to determine what is affordable for a given region. They do that by using area median income (AMI), which is set annually by the government using census numbers and other data. It defines the midpoint of a region’s income distribution and is used to set income and rent limits for affordable housing development.

Where is the greatest housing need?

Households earning less than 30 percent AMI have the greatest need, but there are still many families and individuals making 80 to 100 AMI who are housing cost burdened. Which can cause a huge strain on those households and the economy overall.

Is this just a rent problem or is it a homeownership problem?

It’s both. We know we’re not building enough starter homes for recent graduates and young parents. Owning a home is one of the keys to building individual wealth. If access to homeownership is cut off people can’t create wealth for themselves or their families. This also contributes to the racial wealth gap, as the homeownership rate for Black families is 46.4%, compared to 75.8% for white families.

Access to decent, stable affordable housing provides critical stability for families and individuals. When people have affordable housing options it creates a larger positive economic impact for the whole community. When you can afford your rent or mortgage payment if frees up your ability to purchase other essential items.

In conclusion…

The one thing I want you to take away from this birthday wish reflection is that the biggest misconception about affordable housing is that it is someone else’s problem. Affordable housing isn’t only an issue for working poor or homeless people. Without affordable housing, economic development suffers, which has an impact on us all. Access to affordable housing benefits everyone.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, David Butcher at david@hztrust.org

Creating and Preserving

Thu, 25 May 2023 16:06:11 GMT

Project Highlight - Starling Yard

AHT is providing funding to Woda Cooper Companies, Inc., working in partnership with Franklinton Development Association, to develop a project known as Starling Yard. This project involves the adaptive reuse of the vacant Starling Middle School, originally built as West High School in 1908, by converting it into 45 affordable units. West High School was listed on the Columbus Register of Historic Properties in February of 2022. On the same site, two new construction three-story walkups consisting of a total of 52 affordable units will be constructed as part of the development for a total of 97 affordable units.

The site was secured by a purchase agreement between Woda Cooper and the Board of Education of the Columbus City School District in December of 2020. The Board had approached Woda Cooper knowing they had done similar projects in transforming schools in other towns such as Nelsonville and Washington Court House. This site was in danger of demolition and listed on the Columbus Landmarks most endangered sites list in 2021 but will now be saved and adapted for quality affordable housing. In addition to the equity financing provided by AHT, this project is unique in that primary financial support for Starling Yard is the result of a bond issuance and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits allocated by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) and Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credits awarded by the Ohio Department of Development.

CEO Reflections

AHT New Hire

EDAP Cohort II Announced

The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County (AHT) is proud to announce the next class of participants in the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP). The EDAP is a 6-month training program that supports emerging developers who are women and people of color with comprehensive technical assistance, education, and access to capital. In addition to providing participants with the opportunity to accelerate their businesses, the program will also help increase the supply of affordable housing units throughout the Central Ohio community.

Participation in the EDAP will assist individuals with experience in business, construction, real estate, and development take their careers to the next phase. The second cohort is made up of 15 emerging developers eager to make an impact in affordable housing across Central Ohio:

Otto Beatty III, Otto Beatty Companies/Otto Beatty Real Estate
Mike Doss, Doss Companies LLC
Eboni Eiland, 360 Builders LLC
Alice Foeller, Northland Collective LLC
Amalea Harding, Dream Living LLC
John Henson, JH Elite Properties LLC
Deonte Holder, Holder Property Group
Wade Jordan III, WJ3 Properties LLC
Keith B. Key, A-Team Management Group
Chris Macisco, Bushwood Investments LTD
Antoine Matthews, Genesis Development Company
Beatrice Nokuri, Mackuri LLC
Cephas Pearson, Minneapolis Property Investments
Mashelle Williams-Gladney, Gertrude Wood Community Foundation

Bios for each of the developers can be found here .

AHT In The News

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email our Director of Lending David Butcher: david@hztrust.org

Dreams Realized

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:04:17 GMT

EDAP Inaugural Cohort

In March, the inaugural cohort for the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) held their graduation. The first class is made up of 9 emerging developers: Freweini Alemayoh, Moses Realty LLC; D’Juan Armstead, Tag Construction; Matthew Drane, Drane Property Group LLC; Muhammad Gadari, Go Freight Inc; Gamal Harding, Dream Living LLC; Sheryl Marrero, Savkon Construction; Aaron McDaniel, Blueprint Development Company; Letha Pugh, AWL Holding LLC; and Stacia Williams, Pillar Properties LLC.

I am proud of this inaugural graduation class. They have already started making an impact on affordable housing in Central Ohio. Many are already utilizing AHT loans for development of affordable housing in Columbus and Franklin County. To date, four members of the inaugural cohort have leveraged $98,175 in soft loans utilizing Franklin County dollars, and $1,227,300 in loans from AHT to create or preserve 19 affordable units.

They are a group of individuals who bring a wide range of experiences, they have proved their dedication to the program and have wasted no time putting the knowledge they gained into action to help solve Central Ohio’s housing crisis. I cannot wait to see what other projects will come to fruition from this group!

It has been my privilege to serve as the President and CEO of the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County since August of 2021. In that time, AHT has accomplished a lot but one of the things I am most proud of is the creation of the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program. I believe this program will change the landscape of our city. It can bring along more developers. It can put a dent in the racial wealth gap. It can get us more housing at a time when every unit matters.

I want to thank the many advocates and supporters who have helped to make this program a reality. I am thankful to our partners JP Morgan Chase, the City of Columbus and the Franklin County Board of Commissioners who have championed this program and helped make it a reality. I am especially grateful to our EDAP Director, Tyneisha Harden. Tyneisha arrived at AHT and hit the ground running. She continues to exceed expectations and this program would not be the success it is without her. I would be remiss if I did not include my congratulations to her on recently being named one of Columbus Business First's 40 under 40 honorees. I am so fortunate to have Tyneisha on my team.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, David Butcher at david@hztrust.org

Expanding Our Impact

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:35:46 GMT

Project Highlight - 1270-1272 Atcheson

AHT is providing funding to Dream Living LLC for the acquisition and rehabilitation of 1270-1272 Atcheson, a townhome-style duplex on the near east side.

In addition to investing in the creation of new units, part of AHT’s mission is to preserve affordable housing. Projects like this serve as a perfect example of that preservation. By rehabilitating these two units, Dream Living is not only enhancing the physical space but also committed to keeping these units affordable for years to come.

Dream Living LLC is owned and managed by Gamal and Amelea Harding. Gamal is a member of the first Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) cohort. He is a licensed general contractor and real estate agent. In February 2022, he left a twenty-year career working in the corporate sector to pursue his real estate development and property management goals fulltime. Dream Living current owns three properties comprising five units, all of them serving residents at 60-70% AMI and two which house residents with Housing Choice Vouchers. Over the past five years, Dream Living has renovated and managed the renovations of over 100 properties.

CEO Reflections

AHT New Hire

2023 AHT Center for Housing Innovation Grantee Awards

The mission of the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County is to create and preserve adequate affordable housing and to stabilize local neighborhoods. AHT accomplishes this mission by making investments in nonprofit and for-profit developers who produce affordable housing opportunities in the Columbus and Franklin County area. AHT recognizes that the production of affordable housing units is only one part of the solution in transforming underserved communities. For affordable housing initiatives to be successful, these efforts must be accompanied by other sustainability and community focused programs and strategies.

One such program is the AHT Grant Program for Housing Innovation. This grant program utilizes a two-pronged approach that provides funding for home repair programs and funding for non-production housing-related initiatives to nonprofit and community development organizations.

In 2023 AHT is investing over $310,000 in 10 organizations to support their innovative projects and programs that support the existing housing infrastructure of our community.

Congratulations to the 2023 Grantees:
Central Community House
Community Housing Network
Franklinton Rising
Gertrude Wood Community Foundation
Habitat for Humanity MidOhio
Healthy Homes
Homeport
LifeCare Alliance
MORPC
Star House

Click here to learn more about AHT’s Center for Housing Innovation Grant Program.

We're Hiring

Staff Accountant

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email our Director of Lending David Butcher: david@hztrust.org

It's Time To Think About A Regional Approach

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 16:35:47 GMT

Last month during his second inaugural address, Governor DeWine beckoned people to “come to Ohio” boasting our state as one offering a brighter future and better life via our welcoming spirit. In his most recent State of the State address the Governor laid out some of the plans he will be focusing on in his second term – plans he hopes will improve the lives of residents while making the state attractive to new prospective growth.

One of the measures he specifically addressed was the lack of adequate and affordable housing. He presented ideas for a “Low Income Housing Tax Credits” and “Single Family Housing Tax Credits” to stimulate the construction of more, desperately needed housing units. I wholeheartedly agree. Housing is one of our most pressing issues and we must discuss bold solutions.

To provide the best possible opportunities for all Ohioans - current and future - we must actively work to resolve our lack of housing at all levels. What does that mean for central Ohio? That means we need to start thinking about housing from a regional perspective. We know that Columbus and the surrounding areas are growing quickly, with estimates of reaching 3 million people by 2050. We are working to make sure we have sufficient and suitable housing to support that growth. To achieve this will require fund raising, problem solving and coalition building at a regional level.

This planning effort has already started with the convening of a Regional Housing Coalition. Along with City of Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and Columbus Partnership President and CEO Kenny McDonald, I am proud to join this important effort as one of three conveners. The purpose of this group to identify and implement actions that address the region’s core housing needs. The regional tools already at our disposal will need to be expanded and upgraded so that we can collectively address key housing needs and provide access to opportunities. If we are to remain economically competitive as a region, we must make inroads into this housing crisis that is plaguing our region and our country. Further, we must establish equitable policies that ensure safe and affordable housing for all existing and new residents to the central Ohio community.

I am excited to serve as one of the conveners for this effort and work to establish an innovative and long term strategy to support our growing community. I am proud to lead AHT at a time when we are also considering our ability to affect change at the regional level.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org

Supporting Our Communities

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 18:11:33 GMT

Collaborative Spotlight

Last month the Community Development Collaborative of Greater Columbus (Collaborative) hosted a gathering of Collaborative Board members and 2022 Grantees. We celebrated the accomplishments of the Grantees while building stronger relationships as we work together to address housing needs in central Ohio. Special thanks to The Columbus Foundation for hosting.

Since 1992, the Collaborative has provided funding and technical assistance to Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to assist in their efforts to transform Columbus’ distressed neighborhoods into vibrant and sustainable communities. CDCs were created to address the needs of specific neighborhoods, centering on housing and with a special emphasis on bringing vacant and abandoned houses back to productive use.

Effective community development requires the combined talents and resources of many committed partners. Please feel free to contact Jess Patterson at Jess@hztrust.org if you or your organization would like to know more about how to get involved.

Project Spotlight- Harriet's Hope

AHT will provide funding to assist with the development of Harriet’s Hope. This permanent supportive housing project will be located in Franklinton and will include 52 one- and two-bedroom apartments for victims of human trafficking or chronic homelessness. It is a partnership between CMHA and Beacon 360 Management, who has secured partnerships with a variety of local organization to offer wraparound services to residents including case management, recovery counseling and prevention, job readiness and placement and access to mental and physical healthcare.

According to a 2020 report from the Ohio Department of Health, Ohio ranks fifth among states for human trafficking. Harriet’s Hope is the first project of it’s kind in Ohio and will provide crucial housing and resources to a vulnerable population. AHT is a proud partner on such an important and innovative project.

CEO Reflections

AHT In the News

We're making headlines for all the right reasons. Thank you for being partners in our mission.

AHT is Hiring!

AHT is growing and has a current leadership opportunity for someone who can strategically direct and manage the financial functions of our organization as Chief Financial Officer. This position will work in partnership with our CEO to drive strategy and catalyze the growth of AHT.

To learn more and apply please visit www.hztrust.org/careers

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at Matt@hztrust.org

Reflections on Year One

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:18:20 GMT

Since, 2009, I’ve served the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County in one capacity or another, but last year marked a pivotal milestone in my journey as I stepped into the role of President & CEO. For the last year, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to lead this organization as we grow in our mission to create and preserve affordable housing throughout Central Ohio. As I reflect on this first year, I remain inspired by our work and eager to continue this forward momentum.

Last October, AHT celebrated its 20 ^th anniversary with friends and community partners. We honored our commitment to increasing affordable housing by highlighting over $255 million in closed loans, and over 200 successful projects that have created or preserved more than 13,000 housing units. That work deepened this year with the Housing Action Fund approving $36 million in loans before September 30, supporting significant projects like Harriet’s Hope that will provide stable housing for survivors of human trafficking. I’m encouraged by efforts such as this that will help provide stability for some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and grateful for our investors who understand and support this work.

In addition to our traditional lending, in this first year we’ve expanded our body of work by introducing two new programs. The AHT Center for Housing Innovation Grant Program was started to support the existing housing infrastructure of our community. Grants were awarded to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) and Lifecare Alliance to help support eligible homeowners for exterior and interior home repairs that address health and safety, accessibility, and code violations. Additional grants to Creative Living, Homeport, Huckleberry House and Star House were awarded to support non-production projects including site security updates, fencing replacement, ADA compliance improvements, and more.

Early in 2022, I introduced the concept of the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program as a conduit to increasing our housing supply through the cultivation of upcoming developers who are women and people of color. With the generous support of Franklin County, the City of Columbus, JP Morgan Chase, and the local development community, the EDAP officially started classroom work in September. After completing 6 months of educational courses, technical assistance, and project development, the first EDAP cohort will graduate in March 2023.

Finally, we’ve moved offices in this first year to create space for our growing staff. I’ve hired 5 new employees who are committed to our mission and making important contributions to the organization. The entire AHT team, including our Board of Trustees, shares a collective vision for increasing affordable housing in our community, and I’m proud to have each of them on board.

As I contemplate what’s next, I’m in awe of all that has been accomplished in year one. With that said, there is still great work to be done in order to influence the trajectory of housing in Central Ohio. With the expedited growth of our region, innovative affordable housing solutions must remain a top priority. I look forward to bringing to fruition new ideas and expanding our reach to ensure AHT continues to be responsive to the urgent housing needs of our region.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org

The Time is Now to Invest in Women & Developers of Color

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 18:59:17 GMT

Intel has begun construction on two cutting edge chip factories in Licking County. While the idea of a growing tech hub in Central Ohio is very exciting, time is running short to implement effective strategies to address the housing shortage bound to increase with this historic development.

That’s why the time is now to provide women and developers of color with a seat at the table. Historically it has been an extreme challenge for women and people of color to access the education, resources, and most importantly, the capital, to be true participants in the development arena. These barriers discourage smart, creative, and fresh talent from contributing solutions to a major community problem, and prevents them from reaping the benefits from this significant moment in time.

This is where the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program comes into play. Over the course of six months, we will bring together a group of promising women and developers of color to teach them the ins and outs of development. Topics will range from project feasibility and proforma, all the way down to zoning, construction and building a development team. With funding from JPMorgan Chase, we will provide learning sessions taught by local industry experts, along with access to networking and one-on-one consulting. At the conclusion of the program, participants will be eligible to apply to the Affordable Housing Trust for soft funding provided by the City of Columbus and Franklin County, as well as low-interest rate loans to build much needed housing.

The excitement and potential of what the EDAP can do is real. In addition to providing emerging developers with the tools to build more housing units throughout Central Ohio, the program will also help diversify and strengthen the local development industry. It creates a new ecosystem that expands beyond just program participants. When diverse developers have access to capital, those dollars trickle down to diverse contractors and small businesses living and working in the neighborhoods where housing will ultimately be built. Furthermore, we can address our housing supply issue by adding to the number of developers doing business in the industry, undoubtedly increasing the number of housing units we bring online for our community each year. Finally, traditional banking institutions can comfortably invest in vetted and capable developers that have often been overlooked, simultaneously addressing disparities within real estate development. The EDAP is a win for the entire community .

There is no greater time than now to invest in women and developers of color. They are interested, ready, and willing to help solve one of our community’s greatest challenges. We can’t let this moment pass.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org

Why 90 hours is a number you should know

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 13:11:40 GMT

Affordable Housing 101

With Intel coming to Central Ohio, affordable housing has never been a hotter topic. Yet many don't understand what it is or why it matters. Here we have created a single page resource where we break down this complex topic. We invite you to share it with your organizations, your teams and your boards.

CEO Reflections

AHT In the News

We're making headlines for all the right reasons. Thank you for being partners in our mission.

Answering the call:

Lark Mallory is on a mission

AHT honored as Outstanding

Diversity Champion

AHT launches grants program

for housing innovation

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be? Check out our FAQs here or email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org

Let’s Build More AND Better Affordable Housing

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 17:41:51 GMT

As a young, divorced mom, I was acutely aware of the resources available to me.

I was a working professional with three degrees, a car and the means to pay for a private babysitter, and I still found myself regularly thinking, This is so hard!

How much harder is it, then, for a single mom without access to those options?

She might have to get up extra early to get herself and her kids ready in time to catch the bus. Then walk them from the bus to their childcare center. Then catch that bus again to head to her job.

In the evening, she’d do it all over again, getting home just in time to get dinner on the table. She might even work a few hours at a second job after the kids go to bed to help pay for that daytime childcare. (Infant care in Ohio costs about $10,000 a year —just 3.3 percent less than in-state tuition for a four-year public college and 3.1 percent more than average rent.)

That single mom is who I think about when I hear that a developer will include onsite childcare at their newest affordable housing project. She’ll have an easier time getting to and from her job, more time at home with her kids and maybe a little more economic stability, too. It’s a huge win.

It’s also a reflection of what I mean when I say we don’t just need more affordable housing, we need better affordable housing.

To be clear: We need both.

But I especially love when developers come to the Affordable Housing Trust with plans for a project that includes resources and amenities beyond apartments. That might be onsite childcare, onsite medical care, onsite educational or job placement resources, a gym or a location that allows for walkability to the essential places like groceries and banks.

These are life-altering benefits for anyone who’s lived without them.

And it makes me wonder: How much richer would our community be if affordable housing offered more than housing? What if it made that person’s life a little easier, too?

Let’s find out.

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org

Robust Fund, New Leader + Focused Vision

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:10:19 GMT

The Future is Now

The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County is making an economic impact, fighting poverty and improving lives by spurring the development of affordable housing through lending. Now, we’re heading into our 21st year with incredible assets:

The Mission is Personal

The Potential is Limitless

We've already got positive momentum:

Adjusted our Housing Action Fund borrower requirements to make funds more user-friendly for developers
Began outreach to minority-led and women-led development companies, resulting in funding our first minority-owned private developer, which will bring 27 units of modern, one-bedroom rental housing to Woodland Park
Received our first-ever CDFI grants— $4.7M that we’ll use to incentivize developers to use our revised Housing Action FundReceived our first-ever CDFI grants—$4.7M that we’ll use to incentivize developers to use our revised Housing Action Fund
Increased funding from our Community Development Collaborative, including more funding from a longtime contributor, a new funder coming on board and a match from The Columbus Foundation

Let's Talk

Are you a developer interested in partnering with us, or do you know one who should be?

Email Director of Lending, Matt Wootton at matt@hztrust.org