In a recent government meeting, Chris Krakow, the executive director of a burgeoning community land trust, shared insights into the organization's development and its mission to enhance housing equity. Established by Krakow during his college years at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the land trust has evolved significantly since its inception, particularly after receiving a technical assistance grant from Freddie Mac in 2021.

Krakow highlighted the growing interest in community land trusts across the nation, noting an increase from approximately 225 to 325 such organizations in just a few years. This surge reflects a broader movement aimed at addressing housing challenges, particularly in urban areas like Milwaukee, where the focus is on facilitating homeownership for underserved communities.

The land trust operates with a small team, including Krakow and homeownership manager Laquisha Bridal, who brings extensive experience in home buying counseling. Together, they aim to educate potential homeowners about the complexities of the land trust model and provide support throughout the homeownership journey.

Krakow emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the land trust's initiatives, stating that understanding local needs is crucial for effective implementation. As the organization continues to grow, it seeks to adapt its strategies to better serve the diverse populations within the county.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions, underscoring the land trust's commitment to transparency and community involvement as it navigates the complexities of housing equity and homeownership.