On April 22nd, Williamsburg REALTORS® hosted their Annual General Membership Meeting, bringing together members, community leaders, housing advocates, and business partners for a day focused on leadership updates, collaboration, and one of the region’s most pressing issues: affordable housing.
A highlight of the meeting was a compelling panel discussion titled “Community Land Trust: JCC’s Answer to Affordable Housing,” which sparked meaningful dialogue around long‑term, sustainable housing solutions for James City County. The panel featured Vaugn Poller, Neighborhood Development Administrator of James City County, Erica Sims, an expert on Community Land Trusts with HD Advisors, and Susan Gaston, Legislative Consultant for Williamsburg REALTORS®, who shared insights on how Community Land Trusts preserve affordability, strengthen neighborhoods, and support equitable growth.
“Affordable housing is one of the most complex issues in the Greater Williamsburg Community, and conversations like these are essential to moving solutions forward,” said Alison Sakimura, 2026 Williamsburg REALTORS® President. “By bringing together local government, housing experts, and business partners, we are helping educate our community and advocate for innovative approaches that create long term housing opportunities for families in James City County.”
Williamsburg REALTORS® were also honored to welcome special guests Elizabeth Ameling, CEO and Founder of Latisha’s House Foundation, and Amy Ritchie, Colonial Williamsburg Community Engagement Manager.
The success of the meeting was made possible through the creativity and dedication of the WAAR Member Engagement Committee and valued Business Partners, who facilitated lunch and created engaging “Travel Around the World” experiences that encouraged networking and connection throughout the day.
A highlight of the meeting was a compelling panel discussion titled “Community Land Trust: JCC’s Answer to Affordable Housing,” which sparked meaningful dialogue around long‑term, sustainable housing solutions for James City County. The panel featured Vaugn Poller, Neighborhood Development Administrator of James City County, Erica Sims, an expert on Community Land Trusts with HD Advisors, and Susan Gaston, Legislative Consultant for Williamsburg REALTORS®, who shared insights on how Community Land Trusts preserve affordability, strengthen neighborhoods, and support equitable growth.
“Affordable housing is one of the most complex issues in the Greater Williamsburg Community, and conversations like these are essential to moving solutions forward,” said Alison Sakimura, 2026 Williamsburg REALTORS® President. “By bringing together local government, housing experts, and business partners, we are helping educate our community and advocate for innovative approaches that create long term housing opportunities for families in James City County.”
Williamsburg REALTORS® were also honored to welcome special guests Elizabeth Ameling, CEO and Founder of Latisha’s House Foundation, and Amy Ritchie, Colonial Williamsburg Community Engagement Manager.
The success of the meeting was made possible through the creativity and dedication of the WAAR Member Engagement Committee and valued Business Partners, who facilitated lunch and created engaging “Travel Around the World” experiences that encouraged networking and connection throughout the day.
We wrapped up the event with Rock The Rules: WMLS Rules & Regulations, taught by Darragh Cutshaw — a strong finish to an inspiring day.
A special shout‑out to our sponsors for making this event possible:
Chesapeake Bank
Movement Mortgage Williamsburg – NMLS# 284773
TowneBank Mortgage
360 Home Inspections
The Lens House
With expert perspectives, meaningful dialogue, and strong member participation, the Annual General Membership Meeting underscored Williamsburg REALTORS®’ ongoing commitment to education, advocacy, and innovative approaches to community development and affordable housing.
