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Laguna Beach hires consultant to study community land trust formation; some residents urge alternate models
Summary
The council approved hiring Harris & Associates (with supporting consultants) to lead formation planning for a community land trust (CLT). Public speakers and housing committee members urged different formation models and emphasized the need for a local, community‑driven board.
The Laguna Beach City Council approved a contract at its March 11 meeting to engage consultants to study and help form a community land trust (CLT) to preserve or create long‑term affordable housing in the city.
Staff said the selected team (Harris & Associates plus subconsultants) will run a condensed community engagement program, draft formation documents and analyze financial feasibility for a CLT tailored to Laguna Beach. Jennifer Savage, the city’s housing program coordinator, told council staff had reduced the scope and cost compared with an earlier, larger contract and will run virtual and in‑person outreach sessions later in March.
Public input: Members of the Housing & Human Services Committee and public commenters said the city should ensure the process yields a community‑led nonprofit entity that can raise funds and operate independently. Cody Engle, vice chair of the Housing Committee, urged the council to prioritize recruiting a voluntary board and to avoid treating a consultant as a substitute for community ownership. Another commenter noted the Irvine CLT’s unusual history and asked staff to confirm the consultant’s relevant experience beyond that single example.
Council decision: Council approved the contract 5‑0. Council members said they expect the consultant to provide options for board recruitment, governance models and financial approaches and to coordinate with philanthropic partners.
Next steps: Staff will post meeting dates and an online survey, begin community engagement at the end of March, and return to council with progress and recommended next steps for CLT formation.
