A number of local organizations and community groups are tackling the Adirondack region’s housing crisis from various fronts.
In an effort to provide an affordable and sustainable alternative for aspiring homeowners, the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA), in collaboration with the Cooperative Development Institute (CDI), is exploring an option that has not been fully developed in the region — cooperative housing.
The two economic development organizations invite local individuals, families and employers to attend the first of three learning sessions that will delve into what cooperative housing is and how it can benefit co-op residents and the broader community.
Presenters will also introduce an unprecedented opportunity for a cooperative housing group to utilize a gifted property near the heart of Lake Placid. The event will take place at the Lake Placid High School auditorium on Wednesday, August 17th from noon to 2 pm.
Once a steering committee of future owner-residents is formed, CDI will support the group in planning for a parcel of land in Lake Placid that has been committed by the Ananta Foundation to develop into a housing cooperative.
Over the last three years, ANCA and CDI have teamed up to offer education and technical assistance for North Country businesses interested in transitioning to employee ownership. Their expertise, in addition to other services provided by ANCA’s Center for Businesses in Transition partnership, helped Ward Lumber of Jay and Malone, NY become a worker-owned cooperative in March 2021.
The August 17 “Co-op 101” learning session will include a presentation from CDI that provides an overview of cooperative housing and addresses frequently asked questions. The presentation will be followed by a question and answer discussion. ANCA and CDI plan to offer two more learning sessions to be scheduled based on the needs of those interested.
The session is free and open to the public. Participants are invited to register online, or when they arrive. For people who are interested but unable to attend the August 17th in-person event, a virtual option featuring a recording of the presentation with a live question and answer session will be offered at a later date. Questions may be directed to ANCA at housing@adirondack.org or (518) 891-6200.
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