State and local officials affected by Hurricane Sandy took part in a forum on the next steps in the recovery effort. They were joined by representatives of relief organizations in gaving an assessment of current recovery situation. Mayor Ed Johnson said the main issue is housing for both renters and homeowners. Panelists from private industry discussed how their businesses are part of the recovery and relief efforts. Topics included the need for careful planning and the decision process for the allocation of relief funds. The U.S. Leadership Forum hosted this discussion in Washington, D.C.