The issue of housing shortages drew U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown to the city of Defiance, hosting a roundtable discussion on the concerns. Nearly a dozen local officials participated in the dialogue, with Senator Brown probing to find the cause of the shortage, and listening for ideas on how the issues can be resolved. The huge infrastructure bill in Washington may be able to provide some funding, although the senator admitted, most of the dollars will go to the big cities in the Buckeye State. Lack of available land to build-on was listed as a deterrent to construction, and the high cost of materials has held-back many developers. All participants concurred- there is a need for housing to attract companies to Defiance, to provide a safe haven for those dealing with mental health issues; and to welcome growing families to the area.