Residents Come Together in Northeast Kingdom to Fight Housing Crisis
In the charming towns of Albany, Craftsbury, Glover, and Greensboro, located at the headwaters of the Black, Barton, and Lamoille Rivers, a group of passionate individuals has banded together to tackle the pressing issue of the housing crisis. While larger organizations are making strides in addressing the shortage of affordable housing in the region, locals in the Northeast Kingdom have taken matters into their own hands, spearheading initiatives to make a difference in their communities.
The Birth of Headwaters Community Trust
One of the latest endeavors to emerge from this grassroots movement is the Headwaters Community Trust, established with the mission of supporting permanently affordable homes through the community land trust model. Led by residents like Rick Morrill, a Greensboro native and board member of the trust, the organization aims to combat the rising costs of land and houses that have put homeownership out of reach for many in the community.
The concept behind the trust is simple yet powerful – by acquiring and maintaining ownership of land, the trust can sell houses at an affordable price, ensuring that they remain accessible to those in need. Homeowners, in turn, agree to sell their properties according to a set formula, keeping the housing affordable for generations to come and shielding it from volatile real estate markets.
Community Collaboration and Initiatives
The Headwaters Community Trust was born out of a larger community-driven effort, originating from a monthly housing forum hosted at the East Craftsbury Presbyterian Church. The church, recognizing the urgent need for affordable housing, launched the forum in 2023, sparking conversations and actions aimed at addressing the housing crisis in the region.
As the momentum grew, residents in Craftsbury were called upon to convert seasonal rentals into long-term housing solutions or add accessory dwelling units to their properties. The response from the community, including local businesses and former state representatives, underscored the pressing need for sustainable housing options that could support families, students, and essential workers in the area.
In addition to the Headwaters Community Trust, other housing projects are also underway in Greensboro, including initiatives by the Greensboro Initiative and RuralEdge. These projects, ranging from new duplex constructions to the redevelopment of the town hall into affordable apartments, reflect a multi-faceted approach to tackling the housing crisis and providing diverse housing options for residents.
Looking Ahead and Building Partnerships
As the Headwaters Community Trust solidifies its presence in the region, President Linda Ramsdell emphasizes the importance of flexibility and community-led development in addressing the housing crisis. With over 300 community land trusts across the country, the model has proven to be a versatile and effective tool in creating affordable housing solutions in both rural and urban settings.
While challenges lie ahead, including fundraising and securing funding support, Ramsdell remains optimistic about the future of the trust and its collaborations with organizations like RuralEdge. By working together and exploring all available options, including affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities, the community is poised to make a meaningful impact on the housing landscape of the Northeast Kingdom.
In the words of Rick Morrill, addressing the housing crisis is crucial for the sustainability of the region and the well-being of its residents. By taking proactive steps and coming together as a community, individuals in the Northeast Kingdom are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future where affordable housing is not just a dream but a reality that benefits all who call this region home.
