The Board approved a resolution to move forward with a feasibility study for a DeKalb community land trust (CLT) and associated preliminary funding. Presenters from House ATL and the DeKalb housing roundtable described CLTs as nonprofit organizations governed by boards including residents, local stakeholders and public representatives; CLTs remove land from the speculative market and apply resale restrictions so homes remain affordable for future buyers.

Speakers said a feasibility study would examine governance options, partnership with the land bank authority, links to subsidy retention and resale restrictions, and how a local CLT could preserve county investments in homeownership. Chief Housing Officer Dr. Ferguson had submitted a memo in support, and commissioners discussed process and procurement steps for selecting a consultant to lead the study.

Commissioners and community groups agreed the study should clarify whether the CLT would be part of a county entity or an independent nonprofit, how it would coordinate with the land bank authority and how funding would be phased. The motion passed; staff and the CHO were directed to proceed with procurement and a consultant-led feasibility analysis.