The Babylon Industrial Development Agency (IDA) recently held a panel discussion on housing development and policy at the East Farmingdale Fire Department. The panel featured prominent voices on the topic, including Kevin Gremse, the Managing Director of the Grow America Fund; Gwen O’Shea, the President and CEO of the Community Development Corporation of LI (CDLI); and Kyle Strober, the Executive Director of the Association for a Better Long Island (ABLI).
“Housing is one of the biggest challenges facing our region; however, this challenge brings opportunities to enhance economic growth in our area, particularly for small businesses and local industries. Expanding housing options is crucial for attracting and retaining a skilled workforce,” said Tom Dolan, CEO of the Babylon IDA. “Events like this panel serve as valuable platforms for dialogue and collaboration on pressing community issues, such as this one. Thank you to our three excellent panelists, whose insights and unique experiences provided an engaging and informative event.”
Throughout the discussion, panelists, each a leader in their respective roles, offered their unique perspectives on the issue of housing on Long Island. Kevin Gremse, with his extensive experience in economic and housing development services, explored the impacts of quality housing options and what has been done within the region and elsewhere to boost stock. Gwen O’Shea, an advocate for affordable and equitable housing, shared insights on CDLI's efforts to increase housing opportunities and projects they’re involved in. Kyle Strober, from an ABLI perspective, asserted the necessity for IDAs to advance housing development, drawing from his vast expertise on housing issues.
The event was a platform for experts to share their insights and allow local business leaders, government officials, and community members to connect and collaborate. Representatives from the Town of Babylon, including Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez and Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, were in attendance.
The event marked the IDA's first business summit of the year, illustrating its commitment to addressing the diverse topics affecting the town and surrounding areas. The discussions help underscore the importance of collaborative efforts and multidisciplinary approaches when tackling community needs.
“One thing that we have heard from business leaders in our town is that they would like more opportunities to connect with other businesses to build relationships and collaborate,” said Dolan. “This dialogue is important as we work together to solve critical issues affecting our region.”
By bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives with its Business Summit Series, the Babylon IDA furthers its mission of catalyzing growth, enhancing community well-being, cultivating a skilled workforce, and facilitating the creation of housing and transit-oriented developments.
About the Babylon IDA: The Babylon Industrial Development Agency (IDA) promotes economic prosperity in the Town of Babylon, Long Island, by facilitating business growth and retention. Offering financial incentives and tax abatements, it aims to foster job creation, sustainable economic development, and community revitalization. The IDA focuses on creating a vibrant business environment to attract and retain a diverse industrial base. For more information on initiatives and programs, visit https://babylonida.org/