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Big River Community Land Trust outlines plans for permanently affordable homeownership, seeks partnerships
Summary
Big River Community Land Trust updated the White Salmon City Council on its community land trust model, a completed home in Hood River, and a proposed 42-unit Avalon Drive development; the nonprofit said homes are capped at 120% AMI and use a renewable 99-year land lease to preserve long-term affordability.
Anne Medenbach, founder and board member of Big River Community Land Trust, told the White Salmon City Council the nonprofit acquires and stewards land long-term while homeowners purchase the houses and hold a renewable 99-year land lease to keep ownership permanently affordable. She said eligibility is capped at 120% of Area Median Income.
Medenbach reviewed Big River's history (formed 2018, nonprofit status 2019, first executive director hired 2023) and reported the organization completed its first home in Hood River, which is currently under contract to an eligible family. She described a proposed Avalon Drive project in Hood River, a 42-unit affordable homeownership development in planning with construction anticipated in 2027 if funding and approvals align.
Council members asked for details on lease rates, resale limitations and equity. Medenbach said the land lease functions similarly to a homeowners association fee, typically about $100 per month plus a reserve contribution, and that resale prices are restricted to income-eligible buyers with appreciation capped to preserve affordability. She also said the trust can accommodate small projects and mixed-use developments and intends to complement, not duplicate, the Mid-Columbia Housing Authority by focusing on middle-income households.
Council Member David Lindley asked about legal parameters for gifted public land. Medenbach said the Hood River parcel used for Big River's first home was judged to serve a clear public benefit and that specific parameters were addressed by the City of Hood River. Council Member Morella Mora asked how Big River addresses low-income housing needs; Medenbach said the organization collaborates with a range of housing providers and sees itself as one tool among many to expand housing options.
The presentation highlighted funding and capacity challenges: high land costs, limited funding sources and organizational capacity constraints. Medenbach invited regional partnerships, land contributions and shared housing-needs data as avenues to expand permanently affordable homeownership in the Columbia River Gorge region.
The Council thanked the presenters and expressed interest in future partnership opportunities.
