Large-scale development projects can bring with them many positive features like added amenities for an area, new office or housing space, increased tax revenue for the city. Unfortunately too often the benefits of tax breaks do not outweigh the burdens for everyday Chattanoogans. We must do better to ensure that we’re investing in an economy that promotes living wage jobs, community stability, and equitable transit.
How can we make sure that working class families prosper when development comes?
Are there ways to move beyond vague promises or commitments so that city-supported projects can build a better city for all of us?
A community benefits agreement (CBA) is a legally enforceable contract between a developer and a community coalition, and allows affected community members to address a broad range of issues relating to a specific development. For publicly-supported development projects, political decision makers can allow space for more direct community negotiation. With a successful agreement, clear and explicit commitments can accompany a proposed development along with a process for monitoring and enforcement. Just as important, the community has legal standing to make sure the promises become reality.
What kind of commitments do communities aim for?
How can we make sure that working class families prosper when development comes?
Are there ways to move beyond vague promises or commitments so that city-supported projects can build a better city for all of us?
A community benefits agreement (CBA) is a legally enforceable contract between a developer and a community coalition, and allows affected community members to address a broad range of issues relating to a specific development. For publicly-supported development projects, political decision makers can allow space for more direct community negotiation. With a successful agreement, clear and explicit commitments can accompany a proposed development along with a process for monitoring and enforcement. Just as important, the community has legal standing to make sure the promises become reality.
What kind of commitments do communities aim for?
Quality of Construction Jobs Workforce Development
Quality of Permanent Jobs Sustainability
Inclusive Housing Community Partnerships
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Goals and High Road Contracting
Quality of Permanent Jobs Sustainability
Inclusive Housing Community Partnerships
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Goals and High Road Contracting