Community Benefits Agreements (CBAs) are legally binding agreements between private developers and community groups aimed at ensuring that new developments provide tangible benefits to the local community. They are becoming increasingly popular as a way to create sustainable development while addressing community concerns about gentrification, displacement, and lack of economic opportunity.
CBAs typically include a range of provisions, such as requirements for affordable housing, local hiring, job training programs, and community amenities like parks, schools, and community centers. They can also include provisions for environmental protections, mitigations for traffic and congestion, and other measures intended to improve quality of life for residents.
The goal of CBAs is to create a fair and equitable process for community engagement and decision-making in the development process. This helps to ensure that the benefits of new development are shared by all members of the community, rather than just a few select individuals or businesses.
CBAs are often negotiated between private developers and community groups with the assistance of local government officials. They are typically supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including neighborhood associations, labor unions, environmental advocacy groups, and social justice organizations.
One of the key benefits of CBAs is that they can help to promote economic development in traditionally underserved communities. By requiring developers to hire locally and provide job training programs, CBAs can help to create new economic opportunities and build the skills of local residents.
In addition, CBAs can help to mitigate the negative impacts of gentrification and displacement. By requiring affordable housing and other community amenities, developers can help to ensure that residents are not priced out of their own neighborhoods. This helps to promote neighborhood stability and social cohesion.
Overall, CBAs are an effective tool for promoting sustainable development and creating equitable communities. By prioritizing the needs of local residents and promoting economic development, CBAs can help to create a brighter future for all members of the community.