As the West End Home Builders’ Association looks ahead to an exciting new year, we sat down with David Ionico, the new 2025 Chair, to discuss his journey, professional insights, and vision for the housing industry. From his legal career to his passionate involvement with the WE HBA, David’s story is one of dedication, authenticity, and a commitment to community.
Building a Foundation
David’s path to the industry began with his exposure to land use planning litigation at the start of his legal career in Toronto. Working on appeals at (what was then called) the Ontario Municipal Board, he developed an interest in the complexities of land use planning law. Seeking a role on the solicitor-side of land use planning law and wishing to return to his hometown, David returned to Hamilton, joining McHugh Whitmore LLP to practice land development law with his father, Ralph. There, he continued to build on his expertise in land development law, merging his legal skills with his desire to contribute to creating thriving communities.
David’s connection to the WE HBA was spurred by his father, a long-time member of the Association. “I actually remember the first day I joined this firm. The first thing he said was to reach out to, what was then, the Hamilton Halton Home Builders Association, and see what events are coming up,” he recalls. His first event, the President’s Gala in 2016, turned out to be a pivotal moment. What he initially thought would be a generic work event like any other, turned into a chance to meet great new people and form lasting friendships. Since then, he has remained actively involved and passionate about the Association.
Leadership Inspired by Mentorship
David credits his father, also a land development lawyer, as his biggest influence. His father not only shaped his understanding of the practical aspects of law but also inspired him to join McHugh Whitmore LLP, where David is now a partner. “He’s shown me the practical aspects of getting things done in this space, in Hamilton,” says David. He also draws inspiration from past WE HBA presidents (including Nick Carnicelli, Rob Molinaro, Bianca Bruzzese, Terri Johns and John-Anthony Losani, under whom he served on the Board), who demonstrated how to lead within the Association.
A defining trait of David’s leadership philosophy is genuineness. “The recipe for success is hard work, honesty, and just being a good person,” he says. In an industry that thrives on trust, David believes authenticity fosters stronger relationships with everyone he works with.
Building Success Amidst Challenges
Projects often last years, making their completion all the more satisfying. “Every time I see a land development project get registered and start closings, I derive huge satisfaction from that, especially when I get to drive by these projects and see people moving in and the community flourish,” he shares.
However, he also highlights bureaucratic inefficiencies as a significant barrier to progress in the housing industry. “We need the government to get out of the way and let our members build housing,” he says, noting that the proper protections are already in place for the public. “But like I said, those [protections for the public] are already in place, so if those aren’t working, it’s a matter of determining why those procedures aren’t working, and making those procedures more efficient and effective, rather than just continuing to pile on more layers of bureaucracy and red tape for our members.”
A Vision for the Future
As the Chair, David is eager to lead WE HBA through 2025, emphasizing the strength of the team supporting him. He shares, “I’m excited because I have such a great team around me, including the WE HBA staff and the Board and Executive that I’m surrounded with… I truly believe everything we do is a team effort.”
Looking ahead, with the upcoming federal and provincial elections, David underscores the importance of staying actively engaged with government and the public, providing fact-based input to drive meaningful change. For him, education is central to this mission. “We need to educate not only our members about industry changes but also the public and government about the essential role we play in addressing the housing crisis,” he says.
Highlighting the Industry’s Essential Role
He also highlights the need to shift public perception. “We provide an essential service to Canadians—building housing for future generations and immigrants. We’re on the same team with everyone. If we want a thriving society with a growing population, housing is fundamental.”
Collaboration across all levels of the home-building industry is key. “At the municipal and regional level, WE HBA can educate and advocate; provincially, OHBA plays a vital role as a representative for provincial issues; and federally, CHBA supports national initiatives. Together, we must ensure housing is appreciated to be an essential part of Canadian society, much like healthcare.”
Looking Ahead
Under David’s leadership, WE HBA will continue strengthening its role as a resource for members, providing clear, data-driven insights and advocating for effective housing policies. With a strong focus on education and collaboration, David is committed to driving the Association’s efforts to address housing challenges, engage with government, and advocate for solutions that support the community in 2025 and for years to come.
