On Thursday, May 8, 2025, HODC’s Executive Director, Richard Koenig, was honored to serve as a panelist at the Biennial Seminar for Local Government Clients in Chicago, hosted by Elrod Friedman LLP.
The event brought together more than 200 attendees, including elected village board and city council members, municipal staff, and department heads from across the Chicago suburbs. The seminar featured a 40-minute panel discussion focused on “Emerging Trends and Issues in Real Estate Development in the Chicago Suburbs.”
Richard joined a distinguished group of panelists:
- Justin Pelej, Focus Development
- Tina Dalman, Pulte Group
- Aaron Tucker, Tucker Development
- Steven Elrod, Moderator, Elrod Friedman
During the discussion, Richard shared his insights on HODC’s work developing affordable housing in the suburbs, highlighting important new projects in Deerfield and Northbrook. He illustrated the unique challenges of creating homes for working families at below market rents, as well as the complications of using multi-layered “lasagna” financing to create safe and affordable homes in suburban communities.
As the nonprofit developer on the panel, Richard offered a unique perspective on the challenges around creating homes at affordable rents and emphasized the importance of building relationships.
“There is a need for additional homes at all income levels.” Richard noted. “Workers want to be closer to their jobs. Seniors want to age in place. Young families want stability. Affordable housing is an important part of the equation for many suburban communities.”
We are proud to have had Richard represent HODC in such a meaningful conversation and contribute to the broader dialogue about the future of housing and development in the Chicago suburbs.
