Affordable & Workforce Housing Panel Luncheon, hosted by the Young Professionals Council


Join us on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024 to hear from our distinguished panelists about the state of workforce and affordable housing in Palm Beach County. We'll discuss the challenges that come with the development of workforce housing, the benefits of bringing it to your town, and what it could mean for your business growth. 

This event is open to all! You do not need to be a Young Professional to attend.

 Our panelists will provide a well-rounded view of housing from a municipal, non-profit, and private sector standpoint. 

Moderator: 
Brett Leone, City of Palm Beach Gardens, YP Council Member

Brett Leone is a Principal Planner with the City of Palm Beach Gardens. Growing up in Jupiter, Brett has seen the northern end of Palm Beach County grow and change over the last 30 plus years. He attended Florida State University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and a Master of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning. Brett moved back home to Jupiter after graduation to begin his professional career with a local land planning and landscape architecture consulting firm. Here he was able to grow and learn professionally and began giving back to northern Palm Beach County through his involvement with thoughtful and creative development projects that added to the quality of the region. After five years in the private sector, Brett joined the Staff at the City of Palm Beach Gardens where he is a Principal Planner for the Avenir Development and works on the City’s Mobility Program. In addition to working for the City of Palm Beach Gardens, Brett is involved in the community. He is a past chair of the Palm Beach North Young Professionals Steering Council and continues to be involved with the Young Professionals. Brett also serves on boards for various civic organizations where he is able to give back to the community.  




Panelists:
Alex Akel, President, Akel Homes

Alex Akel is President of Akel Homes, an award-winning private residential development company based in South Florida. With a successful track record spanning over a decade, Alex is a second-generation Florida builder. Dedicated to building thoughtfully crafted lifestyle communities in premier locations, Alex oversees all aspects of the company's operations, from land acquisitions and entitlements to financing, product design, purchasing, construction operations, sales and marketing, and customer service - ensuring a seamless and exceptional experience for residents. 

Alex holds a Masters in Real Estate from Harvard University and a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration from the George Washington University. He is a licensed contractor in the state of Florida. During his free time, he enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife and two children.

Tara Okler, COO, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County

Bio coming soon!