Community land trusts

Definition

Community land trusts (CLTs) are nonprofit organizations that acquire and hold land for the benefit of a community, ensuring that the land remains affordable and accessible for housing and other uses. By removing land from the speculative real estate market, CLTs aim to provide stability for low- and moderate-income residents while fostering community engagement and activism around local development issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Community land trusts originated in the United States in the 1960s as a response to urban displacement and gentrification, aiming to create more equitable access to land.
2. CLTs usually separate ownership of the land from ownership of buildings, allowing homeowners to buy their homes at reduced prices while keeping land ownership with the trust.
3. This model helps to stabilize neighborhoods by preventing rapid price increases and ensuring long-term affordability for future generations.
4. Community land trusts often prioritize environmentally sustainable development practices, integrating green spaces and community gardens into their projects.
5. In addition to housing, CLTs can also support commercial development and public spaces, fostering diverse community growth and resilience.

Review Questions

• How do community land trusts contribute to local housing affordability and stability?
  • Community land trusts contribute to local housing affordability by removing land from the speculative market, which helps keep housing prices lower for residents. By separating the ownership of land from the ownership of buildings, CLTs allow homeowners to purchase their homes at more affordable prices. This structure not only provides immediate financial relief but also promotes long-term stability in neighborhoods by preventing displacement and maintaining community ties.
• Discuss the role of community engagement in the establishment and operation of community land trusts.
  • Community engagement is crucial in both the establishment and operation of community land trusts, as it ensures that the needs and desires of local residents are prioritized. By involving community members in decision-making processes, CLTs foster a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. This participatory approach helps build strong relationships between residents and trust operators, enhancing community cohesion and support for local initiatives.
• Evaluate the impact of community land trusts on urban development patterns in cities facing gentrification.
  • Community land trusts significantly influence urban development patterns in cities experiencing gentrification by providing an alternative model that prioritizes affordability and community well-being over profit. By retaining ownership of land, CLTs can effectively resist pressures from developers seeking to maximize profit through high-end construction. This helps maintain a diverse mix of housing options and prevents displacements, ultimately leading to more equitable urban environments. The presence of CLTs can also inspire similar movements in other neighborhoods, promoting wider social activism aimed at addressing housing inequalities.

Related terms

affordable housing: Housing that is reasonably priced for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, often supported by government initiatives or nonprofit organizations.

land tenure: The legal regime in which land is owned or occupied, which can influence land use and access rights within a community.

community engagement: The process of involving community members in decision-making and initiatives that affect their lives, often promoting social equity and local empowerment.