Community land trusts

Definition

Community land trusts (CLTs) are non-profit organizations that acquire and hold land on behalf of a community, with the goal of providing affordable housing and promoting community development. By separating the ownership of land from the ownership of buildings, CLTs help ensure long-term affordability and prevent displacement caused by rising property values. This model supports the creation of sustainable, equitable communities, particularly in areas affected by housing discrimination and segregation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Community land trusts emerged in the U.S. during the civil rights movement as a response to housing discrimination and racial segregation in urban areas.
2. CLTs operate by purchasing land and then leasing it to homeowners or developers at affordable rates, ensuring that homes remain affordable for future generations.
3. This model empowers communities by giving them a voice in local development decisions and fostering a sense of ownership over their neighborhoods.
4. Research has shown that CLTs can effectively mitigate the negative impacts of gentrification, preserving affordable housing in rapidly changing neighborhoods.
5. In addition to housing, some CLTs also focus on community gardens, parks, and other public spaces, enhancing overall community well-being and cohesion.

Review Questions

• How do community land trusts contribute to combating housing discrimination and segregation?
  • Community land trusts contribute to combating housing discrimination and segregation by providing an alternative model for land and housing ownership. By holding land in trust for the community, they create opportunities for low-income families and marginalized groups to access affordable housing in areas where they might otherwise be priced out. This approach helps counteract patterns of segregation by enabling diverse communities to thrive together.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of community land trusts in preventing displacement caused by gentrification.
  • Community land trusts are effective in preventing displacement caused by gentrification by maintaining long-term affordability for housing units. Through their unique model of separating land ownership from property ownership, CLTs can keep homes accessible to low- and moderate-income families even as property values rise. Studies indicate that neighborhoods with active CLTs experience less displacement compared to those without such interventions, demonstrating their vital role in stabilizing communities.
• Assess the broader implications of community land trusts on urban planning and community development strategies.
  • Community land trusts have significant implications for urban planning and community development strategies by promoting sustainable growth that prioritizes equity and affordability. They encourage collaborative decision-making processes that involve local residents, thus fostering a sense of agency and belonging within communities. Additionally, as cities grapple with issues like homelessness and rising living costs, CLTs offer scalable solutions that not only address immediate housing needs but also contribute to long-term community resilience against economic pressures.

Related terms

Affordable Housing: Housing that is reasonably priced for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, often supported through government policies and programs.

Gentrification:

The process of neighborhood change that results in the influx of more affluent residents, often displacing long-term, lower-income residents due to rising rents and property values.

Housing Cooperatives: A type of housing where residents collectively own and manage their housing units, promoting affordability and community control.