March 23, 2026

Welcome to People and Properties, the Cohen-Esrey newsletter where we celebrate the successes of our team members and keep you informed about what is happening in the Cohen-Esrey world. If you have something you would like to share or an achievement that you would like to celebrate, please send it to Lee Harris at lharris@cohenesrey.com. If you are on a property, please print and distribute this newsletter to each member of your property team. You can also find People and Properties on KnowledgeNet. Click here to view previous editions.

Sunset in Texarkana

The Sunset Apartments in Texarkana, TX, were built in 1969 and are managed by Cohen-Esrey Communities (CEC) for a third-party client. This 150-unit affordable community offers one-bedroom units of 636 square feet renting for $865 per month; two-bedroom units of 810 square feet renting for $1,024 per month; and three-bedroom units of 950 square feet renting for $1,201 per month. Residents can use a shared laundry facility, and a large playground is available for children. Also, the property is conveniently located on a bus line. The Scott Joplin Park is nearby as well as numerous churches, restaurants, and shopping.

South Texarkana, TX, is the southern portion of the twin city of Texarkana, which sits on the border of Texas and Arkansas. Unlike its neighbor Texarkana, AR, South Texarkana developed primarily as a residential and working-class community supporting the region’s railroads, agriculture, and local industry. Over time it became known for its quiet neighborhoods, small businesses, and strong sense of local identity. The area reflects the broader culture of Northeast Texas, blending Southern traditions with small-town values. Though smaller than the main Texarkana districts, South Texarkana contributes to the shared economy, history, and community life that connect both sides of this unique border city.

Shlonda Fields (2023) is the Property Manager and Becky Rexach (2025), is the Regional Manager. Mike Gioia (2020) is the Senior Property Accountant, and Nancy Lewis (2021), is the Accounting Assistant.

We welcome the following new team members to Cohen-Esrey and the Nexus 5 Group.

Joshua Earl – Town Square – Vermillion, SD – Resident Services Assistant
Chad Howells – Shire, Sioux City, IA – Maintenance Technician
Dawson Stanley – Libertad Des Moines, Des Moines, IA – Maintenance Technician

Meet the Libertad Des Moines Team

Meet the Libertad Des Moines team. (L to R) – Back: Brandi Zeimet (2021), Social Services Coordinator; Lisa Melgoza (2019), Property Manager; Brandy Wheeler (2023), Groundskeeper. Front: Dawson Stanley (2026), Maintenance Technician.

Libertad (40-units) is located in southeast Des Moines, IA, and is managed by Cohen-Esrey Communities (CEC) for a third-party client.

Transformational Construction

Construction continues at Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) future communities.

A good-looking kitchen at the Lofts at Creekview in San Antonio, TX.

The management office at the Lofts at Creekview.

The Overlook 157 in Asheville, NC, is an imposing structure.

Electrical work is in progress at Overlook 157.

Congratulations, TJ!

Brent Phillips, CPM, (2021), Maintenance and Safety Director, is pleased to announce that Terrance (TJ) Vetaw (2023), Commercial Maintenance Technician, has successfully passed the EPA 608 Universal Certification Exam.

The EPA 608 certification is a federally required credential for technicians who work with equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere. The certification ensures that individuals understand how to safely handle, maintain, service, and dispose of refrigerants in compliance with environmental regulations established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Achieving the Universal certification is the highest level available. It means that TJ is qualified to work with all types of refrigerant-containing equipment, including:

Small appliances.
High-pressure systems (such as most residential and commercial HVAC systems).
Low-pressure systems (such as large commercial chillers).

This certification demonstrates a strong understanding of environmental responsibility, regulatory compliance, and technical HVAC expertise. It also reflects the time, effort, and dedication required to master the material and pass the exam.

On most days, TJ can be found at 8500 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Merriam, KS – our Corporate Headquarters building. Congratulations, TJ!

HR Corner

By Dee Krause (2022), Recruiting Manager

Who Does What in HR?

Human Resources plays a vital role in supporting both team members and the overall success of our organization, but many people aren’t always sure who to contact for specific HR needs. From recruiting and onboarding new team members to supporting team member development, benefits, payroll, and workplace policies, our HR team works behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. In this article, we’re highlighting who does what within HR, so you know exactly where to go when you have a question, need support, or want to explore opportunities for growth within the company. By getting to know the people and responsibilities within HR, we hope to make it even easier to connect with the right resource when you need it.

Benefits – Have a benefits question, need help with enrollment, or dealing with a claims concern? Contact Gina Long, HR Business Partner (2022) or Jennifer Miller (2025), Director of HR.
Team Member Relations – For leaves of absence, workers’ compensation, performance management, or coaching, reach out to Gina or Jennifer.
Team Member Surveys – Please complete your surveys – your feedback helps us grow! Questions? Contact Jennifer or Gina.
Learning & Development – Looking for growth opportunities, career coaching, or training support? Connect with Marilee Scheid (2019), Director of Learning & Development.
Onboarding – For onboarding questions or concerns, contact Gina.
Payroll – For timecards, PTO, taxes, or Paylocity assistance, reach out to Sara Antar (2002), Payroll Administrator.
Recruiting – Our recruiting team – Dee Krause (2022), Recruiting Manager, along with Val Quezada (2024), and Franci Rabinowitz (2025), Recruiters – are here to support you.

Jayme Deal’s Portfolio – supported by all three recruiters
Cassie Colston’s Portfolio – supported by Val Quezada.
Market Rate Portfolio – supported by Dee Krause.
Ben Carpenter’s Portfolio – supported by Franci Rabinowitz.
Corporate and Nexus 5 Positions – supported by Dee Krause.

And remember – if you’re ever unsure who to contact, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of us. We’re here to help, and I look forward to connecting with each of you.

Waiting in the Wings

The Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) always has a pipeline full of projects. This is a periodic feature in People & Properties where we will focus on a development deal that is pending.

In this issue, we are featuring Canyon Vista in Glenwood Springs, CO.

Funding Sources: Equity from federal and state affordable housing and solar tax credits awarded in 2025. Tax-exempt bond debt.

Estimated Project Cost: $51.142 million

Number of Units: 80

Resident Profile: Workforce/Family

Construction Start: Late 2026

Development Director: Jon Atlas (2015)

Historic Buildings of Cohen-Esrey

Cohen-Esrey has a long history of developing and/or managing some really cool historic buildings. In this series, we feature one such building in each issue.

Waverly Lofts

The Waverly Lofts in Waverly, IA, are located in an historic building that originally opened in 1935 as an office building. The building was originally constructed as the home office for the Lutheran Mutual Aid Society which later became the Lutheran Mutual Life Insurance Company. Over time, the company evolved and the building became associated with CUNA Mutual Insurance. In 2019, the building was renovated and repurposed into residential housing by the Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG). The redevelopment converted the former office structure into 34 apartment units, many designed as affordable housing for households earning up to 60% of the area median income. The project was financed in part through affordable housing and historic tax credits, helping maintain the building’s historic architecture while giving it new life.

Way to Go, Levi!

Lizzy Darby (2021), Software Development Manager, is pleased to announce the promotion of Levi Cook (2022), from Level 1 Web Developer to Web Developer. During his time in the junior role, Levi successfully delivered several applications from start to finish, including the New Hire Orientation, Property Onboarding, and most recently, the Help Desk. His ability to manage projects independently and see them through to publishing reflects his growth as a developer.

Nice job earning this promotion, Levi!

The Annual Leadership Conference is Right Around the Corner!

The Cohen-Esrey Annual Leadership Conference is scheduled for April 21 – 23 at the Argosy Casino in Riverside, MO. The theme this year is Accountability in Motion. Here is the schedule for the event.

2026 Annual Leadership Conference Schedule

Tuesday, April 21

2:00 – 5:00 PM Registration and Vendor Fair

5:00 – 6:00 PM Welcome Reception and Cocktail Hour

6:00 – 7:00 PM Dinner

7:00 – 8:30 PM Community Impact Event – Community Impact Team

Wednesday, April 22

7:00 – 8:15 AM Breakfast & Morning Kickoff

8:15 – 9:45 AM Accountability – Mark Fletcher

9:45 –10:00 AM Break

10:00 – 11:30 AM The Right Fit: Hiring Through Values and Behavioral Insights

Navigating Difficult Team Member Relations: Lessons From Real Case Studies

Payroll Done Right: Accountability, Tips, and Tricks for Team Members and Managers

The 7 Traits of a People-First Leader: Leadership That Builds Stronger Teams – Jennifer Miller, Gina Long, Dee Krause, Val Quezada, Franci Rabinowitz, Sara Antar, and Marilee Scheid

11:30 – 12:30 PM Lunch

12:30 – 2:00 PM Accountability in Accounting – Paige Bohling, Emily Tew, Nicole Zoller, and David Garrett

2:00 – 2:15 PM Break

2:15 – 2:30 PM Team Building Exercise – Morgan Gassert and Maelin Seamons

2:30 – 4:00 PM Financial Integrity: Proactive Delinquency Reduction – Michele Rollo-Burns

4:00 – 4:15 PM Break

4:15 – 5:15 PM Couch Discussion – Executive Leadership Team

5:15 – 6:00 PM Cocktail Hour

6: 00 – 7:00 PM Dinner

7:00 – 8:30 PM Awards Ceremony

Thursday, April 23

7:00 – 8:00 AM Breakfast & Morning Kickoff

8:00 – 9:15 AM Affordable – COP Authorities: Consistency, Oversight and Processes – David Catlett and Christina Walters, with assistance from Alanna Johnson, Cathy Everetts, Dana Colson, and Lisa Paszkiewicz

8:00 – 9:15 AM Market Rate – Process, People, Performance: The Accountability Loop – Arley Hoskins, Chris Keef, and Michele Rollo-Burns

8:30 – 11:45 AM CEDG – CEDG Meeting

9:15 – 9:30 AM Break

9:30 – 10:45 AM Running Toward Results: Overcoming KPI Obstacles – KV Teams

10:45 – 11:45 AM NSPIRE Inspections and How to Prepare – Ben Carpenter, Brent Phillips, and Charlie Kinnard

11:45 – 1:00 PM Lunch, Closing Remarks and Regional Manager Huddle

Samantha Is on a Mission . . .

Samantha Jones (2023), Property Manager at Lofts at the Grim in Texarkana, TX, is on a mission. On April 18, she’s participating in the Over the Edge challenge to raise money for CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center, an organization that supports children in the community when they need it most.

What makes this extra special is that Lofts at the Grim sits right across the street from the building she’ll be rappelling down, so this really feels like a community moment right in her neighborhood.

To earn her spot on the ropes, Samantha has committed to raising $1,000, and every donation helps CASA continue their incredible work for local children and families.

This is a gutsy challenge – we hope Samantha doesn’t have a fear of heights! What a terrific Community Impact effort!

If you have a similar Community Impact initiative, please share with Kipp Keffel (2024), Director of Training and Customer Fulfillment at kkeffel@cohenesrey.com.

Cities of Cohen-Esrey

Asheville, NC: Beer City USA

Asheville, NC, is a vibrant mountain city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a metro population of over 417,000. Known for its stunning natural scenery, creative culture, and welcoming atmosphere, Asheville attracts visitors from across the country. The surrounding mountains offer countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and scenic drives along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. In the fall, the area becomes especially popular as the forests burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Downtown Asheville is lively and walkable, filled with historic architecture, art galleries, local shops, and a thriving restaurant scene. Street musicians and artists often perform along the sidewalks, adding to the city’s energetic and artistic character. Asheville has long been considered a haven for creativity, with a strong community of painters, musicians, writers, and craftspeople.

One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Biltmore Estate, the grand mansion built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s. The estate includes beautifully preserved rooms, expansive gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and a winery that welcomes visitors year-round.

Asheville is also widely known for its craft beer culture. With dozens of local breweries, the city has earned the nickname “Beer City USA.” Whether exploring the outdoors, enjoying live music, or sampling local food and drink, visitors often find Asheville to be a place that blends natural beauty, history, and creativity in a uniquely appealing way.

The Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) is developing the 144-unit Overlook 157 Apartments which is a combination of affordable and market-rate housing, currently under construction in Asheville.

Nexus 5 Breaks Ground for Two Restaurants

The Nexus 5 Group is pleased to announce a partnership with the commercial real estate firm of Varnum Armstrong Deeter to build two new restaurants in Overland Park, KS. Mr. D’s Donuts and Thai Story will occupy new structures in the Lionsgate Development to be built by Nexus 5.

Mr. D’s Donuts opened its first shop in 1975 in Shawnee, KS. Thai Story is a re-brand of the Pad Thai Restaurant in Overland Park. The total project cost is approximately $3 million and is expected to be completed in October 2026. Mr. D’s will have 2,200 square feet and Thai Story will have 3,200 square feet. Brian Weber (2020) will be the Project Manager, Jessica Bell (2014) will be the Senior Project Engineer, and Eric Cornett (2025) will be the Superintendent.

The Nexus 5 Group has extensive experience building restaurant space including recent facilities for four Minsky’s Pizza locations, Buffalo State Pizza, Summit Pizza, Stone Manor, and Strang Reserve.

An Empowerment Story

By Courtney Templemire (2025), Property Manager – Rankin Mills and Willow Point

If you had told me when I first stepped into property management that I would one day feel confident leading two properties, I probably would not have believed you. This industry was completely new to me. I had never worked in property management before, and yet I was entrusted with a role that challenged me from day one. Looking back now, I can say with complete honesty that Cohen-Esrey has Empowered Me to Thrive not because I started with all the answers, but because I was given the support, encouragement, and opportunity to grow into them.

Starting out, I was managing two properties with very little firsthand experience. There was so much to learn, and at times the learning curve felt overwhelming. But one of the greatest blessings in that season was having Alanna Johnson (2020), Affordable Housing Compliance Specialist, beside me. As the previous Property Manager of those properties and now a compliance specialist, she walked me through the past year with patience, wisdom, and steady encouragement. She helped turn what felt unfamiliar into something I could begin to understand, and her support gave me the confidence to keep moving forward. Sometimes empowerment looks like someone believing in you and taking the time to help you believe in yourself.

That same spirit of support is something I have experienced throughout my time with Cohen-Esrey. The company’s core values—Integrity, Customer Fulfillment, Team Member Fulfillment, Commitment, and Community Impact – are more than statements. I have seen them lived out in meaningful ways. I have seen Integrity in the standards we uphold, Commitment in the work we do each day, and Community Impact in the way we serve our residents and properties. But what has impacted me most personally has been the way Team Member Fulfillment has been shown to me.

My boss, Cassie Colston’s (2004), Regional Vice-President, support has been one of the clearest examples of that. In one of the most difficult seasons of my life, I was met not just with professionalism, but with real compassion and care. That kind of support leaves a lasting mark. It reminded me that thriving is not only about job performance or professional growth. Sometimes thriving begins when someone extends grace, sees your humanity, and gives you the encouragement to keep going. That support strengthened me in ways I will never forget.

Cohen-Esrey has shown me that growth does not require a perfect beginning. It requires commitment, guidance, and a culture that gives people room to learn. I came into this role uncertain and inexperienced, but through the people around me and the values this company lives by, I have grown stronger, more capable, and more confident than I ever expected.

To me, being Empowered to Thrive means being trusted with responsibility, supported through challenges, and encouraged to grow into your potential. That is what Cohen-Esrey has given me, and it is something I will always be grateful for.

A Fun Photo!

Several Cohen-Esrey properties have unique features including smokestacks, water towers, and turrets. Top row (L-R) Falstaff Apartments, Brewery Lofts, Big Chair Lofts, Oneida Mill Lofts. The last photo is a second water tower at Big Chair Lofts. Take a look.

This is How It’s Done . . .

By Arley Hoskin (2022), Leasing Performance Strategist

New Manager Sets the Bar High

Krysta Brandt has only been a property manager for a little over a year and has already crushed NPS goals at Town Square (Vermillion, SD), where she serves as Property Manager. Town Square currently sits at 11th in the Net Promoter Score (NPS) leaderboard, with a score of +34.38.

“I started at Town Square with the previous management company as a Service Coordinator, and then we transitioned to Cohen-Esrey in April 2024, and I was promoted to Property Manager in

February 2025,” Krysta said.

When it comes to being a Property Manager, Krysta said she likes everything about the role. “I like being able to help people. I like the business,” she said. “There is always something to do.”

In Krysta’s previous role as Service Coordinator, she served as somewhat of a social worker, coordinating benefits for the residents. “Their purpose is to help the resident continue living independently as long as possible,” she said.

Krysta said she enjoyed her time as a Service Coordinator but reached a point where she wanted to expand her role. “I was in a position where I felt like I was hitting a wall,” she said. “I couldn’t do more to help some of these people and some of their needs because it was outside of my responsibilities.” As a Property Manager, Krysta can help residents in ways that she couldn’t as a Service Coordinator – things like maintenance, rent, and property issues.

Regional Vice President Jayme Deal (2024) describes Krysta as a model Property Manager. “Krysta consistently demonstrates strong leadership, organization, and accountability in the management of her property,” Jayme said. “She maintains high standards for both the physical asset and the level of service provided to residents, which is reflected in the overall performance of her site. Her ability to stay proactive, address issues quickly, and support her team contributes to the continued success of the property.”

When it comes to what other managers can learn from Krysta, Jayme has quite the list. “Other Property Managers can learn the importance of consistency, communication, and ownership from Krysta’s approach,” she said. “She stays engaged with both her team and her residents, keeps tasks organized, and does not allow issues to go unresolved. Her success shows that strong daily habits, proactive problem-solving, and a focus on resident satisfaction lead to long-term results.”

Krysta sums up her advice to fellow Property Managers in two words: communication and listening. “Residents just want to feel heard, so if you communicate everything appropriately and you take the time to listen to their concerns, it gives them a more comforting feeling,” she said.