The Medina Metropolitan Housing Authority (Mmha) plays a crucial role in providing affordable housing solutions for Medina County residents. Understanding the leadership behind this organization is key to understanding its mission and effectiveness. This article profiles the key staff members at MMHA, highlighting their experience, qualifications, and contributions to the community.
Executive Leadership at MMHA
Skip Sipos, Executive Director
Leading the MMHA is Skip Sipos, who has served as Executive Director since 1994. With a Bachelor of Business Administration from Cleveland State University and graduation from Leadership Medina County, Sipos brings a strong business acumen to the role. His experience includes eight years as Executive Director of the Buckeye Area Development Corporation in Cleveland, where he oversaw significant community and economic development projects. At MMHA, Sipos manages the agency’s properties and programs, including the recent construction of Santee Landing, a 45-unit affordable housing development. He reports directly to the MMHA Board of Commissioners. His Rutgers University Executive Director Training Program certification and Public Housing Manager credentials further solidify his expertise in the field.
Gary Blake, Deputy Director
Gary Blake serves as MMHA’s Deputy Director, overseeing the Housing and Program Departments. These departments manage programs serving over 1300 households monthly, including the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV), Shelter + Care (SPC), and various Emergency Housing Assistance Programs (EHAP). Blake’s extensive experience includes roles in finance and social services at Medina County Job and Family Services, as well as 20 years in management at McDonald’s. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Akron and is a Housing Credit Certified Professional (HCCP), demonstrating his comprehensive understanding of Low-Income Housing Tax Credit regulations.
Program and Financial Expertise
Kelly Parker, Program Director
Kelly Parker ensures compliance for all MMHA programs. With a background in social services and a Master of Education in Adult Learning and Development from Cleveland State University, Parker brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Her certifications in Lean Mastery and Housing Choice Voucher Executive Management further enhance her expertise. She has been with MMHA since 2004, starting as a Family Self-Sufficiency Case Manager.
Rob Ebner, Finance Director
Rob Ebner manages MMHA’s finances. His prior experience includes roles as Controller at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank and Chief Financial Officer at the Battered Women’s Shelter/Rape Crisis Center. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a BS in Accounting from Miami University, Ebner possesses strong financial management skills. His community involvement includes serving as Treasurer for Medina Cares and the Ohio Council for the Social Studies.
Housing and Maintenance Leadership
Ed Witt, Maintenance Director
Ed Witt brings extensive facilities and project management experience to his role as Maintenance Director. His background at MetroHealth Systems, where he managed 23 facilities, ensures the efficient operation and maintenance of MMHA properties. Witt is responsible for all mechanical and life safety systems, ensuring compliance with regulations and the safety of residents.
Aarika Newlon, Housing Director
Aarika Newlon oversees the daily operations of the Housing team, managing over 550 affordable housing units. Her multiple certifications, including Specialist in Housing Credit Management (SHCM) and Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS), demonstrate her comprehensive knowledge of affordable housing management. Newlon’s experience at Wayne Metropolitan Housing Authority further strengthens her expertise.
Emergency Housing Assistance Program Leadership
Jessie Kane, Program Director
Jessie Kane leads the Emergency Housing Assistance Programs (EHAP). Her background in social work at the United Way of Summit & Medina, coupled with her training in trauma-informed care and housing first principles, equips her to effectively manage emergency housing assistance. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Akron.
Piper Morgan, Program Director
Piper Morgan manages the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, overseeing assistance for 699 households monthly. Her responsibilities include program compliance, quality control, and landlord outreach. With a background in special education and community services, and as a Certified Voucher Specialist, Morgan brings valuable skills to her role.
Conclusion: Dedicated to Affordable Housing in Medina County
The Medina Metropolitan Housing Authority benefits from a strong leadership team with diverse experience and expertise in affordable housing, finance, and program management. These individuals are dedicated to ensuring that MMHA continues to provide safe, affordable housing options for Medina County residents. Their commitment to compliance, community engagement, and efficient operations contributes significantly to the success of MMHA’s mission.
