Community land trust

Definition

A community land trust (CLT) is a nonprofit organization that acquires and holds land for the benefit of a community, ensuring long-term affordability and preventing speculation. CLTs empower communities by allowing them to control land use and housing development, which is particularly important in areas facing gentrification and displacement. This model emphasizes community engagement and local decision-making to address housing needs and social equity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Community land trusts aim to create lasting affordability by separating the ownership of land from the ownership of buildings, enabling residents to purchase homes at below-market prices.
2. CLTs typically involve a partnership between the community members, local government, and nonprofit organizations, fostering collaborative planning and development.
3. The model originated in the United States in the 1960s as a response to civil rights issues and the need for more equitable housing options.
4. Many community land trusts incorporate sustainable development practices, promoting green spaces and environmentally friendly building methods.
5. CLTs have been effective tools for preserving community identity and preventing displacement in neighborhoods threatened by rapid economic change.

Review Questions

• How do community land trusts contribute to preventing gentrification and promoting housing affordability?
  • Community land trusts play a significant role in preventing gentrification by acquiring land and maintaining its affordability for low- and moderate-income residents. By separating land ownership from property ownership, CLTs ensure that housing remains accessible and prevents market forces from driving up prices. This model allows communities to have a stake in their development, promoting long-term stability and equity while resisting pressures that typically lead to displacement.
• Discuss the ways in which community engagement is integrated into the operation of community land trusts.
  • Community engagement is central to the operation of community land trusts, as they are designed to reflect the needs and desires of local residents. CLTs often involve community members in decision-making processes regarding land use, development projects, and governance. This participatory approach not only empowers residents but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their neighborhoods, ensuring that the benefits of the trust are aligned with community priorities.
• Evaluate the impact of community land trusts on social equity in urban areas facing economic challenges.
  • Community land trusts have a profound impact on social equity in urban areas dealing with economic challenges by providing a framework for affordable housing amidst rising costs. By prioritizing local needs over speculative investments, CLTs help stabilize communities that may otherwise be vulnerable to displacement. Furthermore, they promote inclusive development practices that engage marginalized voices in urban planning, ultimately working towards dismantling systemic inequities related to race, class, and housing access.

Related terms

gentrification: A process in which urban neighborhoods undergo transformation as wealthier residents move in, often leading to increased property values and the displacement of lower-income families.

affordable housing: Housing that is reasonably priced for individuals or families with low to moderate incomes, typically defined as costing no more than 30% of a household's gross income.

land tenure: The legal regime under which land is held or owned, including various forms such as private ownership, leasehold, and communal ownership.