State of Real Estate

Local experts will discuss key issues for the residential and commercial real estate landscape in the Rochester region. 

Save the Date

April 30, 2026

10am to 11am EST

To learn more about sponsor panel packages for our Virtual Panel Discussions, contact [email protected]

Michael Aiello

SVP / Commercial Loan Officer
NexTier Bank

Michael has been a trusted advisor to Rochester Market Developers for the past 12+ years. He’s aided developers looking to expand their business through financing options from Investment and Owner-Occupied Commercial Real Estate to not-for-profit and Construction Financing. Clients can rest assured knowing that they are receiving sound advice and guidance in the best interest of their business from an industry expert who has worked in banking for over 18 years. As a graduate of Mercyhurst College in Erie, Pennsylvania, and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association’s School of Commercial Lending, Michael’s knowledge and financial expertise speak to his nature as a well-rounded Banker.

Michael currently serves as the President of the Bishop Sheen Ecumenical Housing Foundation, which provides home repairs, home counseling, and housing development for low-income families across the 13 counties surrounding the Greater Rochester Area. His love of sports has enabled him to continue as a high school basketball official for the past 22 years. He serves on the Board of Directors for Board 60, an organization that onboards new officials and allows basketball officials to raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House annually through the Senior All-Star Game. Michael and his wife reside in Penfield, NY, with their daughters.

Galin Brooks

President & CEO
Rochester Downtown Development Corporation

Galin Brooks is President & CEO of Rochester Downtown Development Corporation (RDDC). Galin holds a master’s degree in urban planning from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from University College Dublin. She is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. At the helm of RDDC, Galin’s focus for the future is on helping to cultivate a dynamic, thriving, and inclusive downtown. As downtown Rochester’s landscape continues to evolve, RDDC is stepping up and delivering on its mission – to drive economic vitality downtown – in new and dynamic ways. 

Today, downtown is home to 10,800+ residents, employees are returning to the office, 1,500+ new residential units are planned or under construction, and downtown visitation continues to trend upwards. The operations and activities of RDDC have expanded and adapted to the ever-changing needs of downtown Rochester. RDDC works in a data-driven and informed capacity to generate a dynamic and responsive set of programmatic activities that drive economic vitality in the heart of downtown Rochester. By shining a light on all that is great and growing, activating public spaces, encouraging more people to experience and enjoy downtown, supporting small and local businesses, and running a variety of programs that make downtown livable, welcoming, and appealing for all, RDDC is propelling downtown forward.

Galin is proud to call the City of Rochester home. In her free time, she loves getting outside and exploring with her family – discovering hidden gems and learning more about Rochester’s rich history.

Jon Fogle

Manager, Commercial Banking
ESL

Jon has a long record of commercial banking leadership in the community, a sum totaling more than 30 years. As Manager, Commercial Banking, Jon oversees a team of ESL relationship managers on the Commercial Banking team. The team is responsible for identifying, developing, and managing business and commercial real estate loan relationships, including depository, cash management, wealth management, and other non-credit banking products to existing and perspective members.

Jon holds his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hobart College. He serves on various charitable boards and committees, including the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester and Rochester Business Classic Organization.

Peter Gillett

Associate Real Estate Broker
Flaum Management Inc.

Peter Gillett has been active in the commercial real estate industry since 2007 and joined Flaum Management Inc. in 2019. He specializes in third-party brokerage, advising clients on the leasing and sale of commercial properties and representing both tenants and landlords across the office, medical, industrial, and local retail sectors throughout the Rochester and Finger Lakes area. In addition to his brokerage work, Peter is actively involved in the leasing and marketing of Flaum’s property portfolio.