While CLTs are gaining traction in Canada, they are not as common as other forms of housing ownership. However, their popularity is growing, particularly in urban centers where housing affordability has become a critical issue. Municipalities and provincial governments have shown interest in supporting CLTs as part of their affordable housing strategies. Government funding, grants, and incentives can help establish and sustain CLTs, enabling them to acquire land and develop housing projects that cater to diverse income levels.

See this excellent student post from the University of Windsor for a historical background, as well as commentary on what is being done in Ontario.

The fundamental principle behind CLTs is to create and maintain affordable housing and other community-oriented spaces by controlling the cost of land. CLTs typically acquire land through donations, purchases, or government grants, and they often collaborate with local governments, philanthropic organizations, and community members. Once the land is under the trust’s ownership, it is leased to individuals or organizations for a nominal fee, under long-term leases. This lease structure limits the resale value of the properties, keeping them affordable for successive generations.

CLTs empower communities by giving them a say in how the land is used, developed, and managed. Local residents often serve on the boards of CLTs, ensuring that decisions align with community needs and values. This participatory approach fosters a sense of ownership, shared responsibility, and community engagement.

One notable example of government support for CLTs in Canada is the National Housing Strategy, introduced by the federal government. This initiative recognizes the potential of CLTs in addressing housing affordability challenges and commits to providing financial support for their development.

Renters can certainly benefit from community land trusts. CLTs provide stable, affordable housing options that can be especially advantageous for renters facing skyrocketing rents and limited options in competitive rental markets. CLTs ensure that rental properties remain affordable over the long term, offering renters more security and predictability in their housing costs. Additionally, renters within CLTs have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes that affect the management and development of the community, fostering a greater sense of belonging and agency.