To empower community-serving nonprofits, this policy proposes granting streamlined, priority access to unused public lands and facilities at minimal or no cost. This initiative would enable nonprofits to focus more resources on delivering essential services—especially in housing, community development, and safety—while also reducing urban blight by transforming vacant properties into community assets.
Background
Many cities across the U.S. hold public properties that are vacant, underutilized, or in disrepair, costing municipalities in maintenance while offering no public benefit. Nonprofits focused on social impact are ideal candidates to revitalize these spaces but often face significant barriers in terms of cost, administrative requirements, and complex leasing or acquisition processes. Simplifying and prioritizing access to these properties for nonprofits could create a mutually beneficial solution that fosters growth, safety, and community pride.
Proposal
This policy introduces the concept of “Community Access Zones” (CAZs) within municipalities. In CAZ-designated areas, eligible nonprofits would have prioritized access to underutilized public lands or facilities under simplified, affordable leasing or ownership terms, helping to spark social and economic revitalization.
Policy Details
- Eligibility Requirements
- Nonprofits must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations focused on critical services, such as affordable housing, social services, education, or community safety.
- Priority consideration for nonprofits with a track record of delivering measurable impact in their communities, ideally with a clear plan to sustain long-term, on-site programming.
- Designating Community Access Zones (CAZs)
- Municipalities would identify specific areas with a high concentration of vacant or underutilized properties and establish these as CAZs, where nonprofits receive first-priority access.
- Properties within these zones would be assessed for community impact potential and designated for nonprofit use, with priority given to organizations aligned with the CAZ mission.
- Flexible Leasing and Ownership Options
- Nonprofits could access these properties through low-cost or nominal leasing terms, with long-term stability in mind to support sustainable service delivery.
- Municipalities may also offer ownership opportunities at reduced or zero cost, provided nonprofits commit to maintaining and operating the property for community benefit over a set period (e.g., ten years).
- Simplified Application and Support Process
- Establish a dedicated CAZ liaison to assist nonprofits with application, leasing, and operations, ensuring prompt and streamlined support.
- Create a simplified online portal where nonprofits can easily view available properties, apply for access, and track the status of their application.
- Community and Fiscal Impact
- For Nonprofits: Reduced property costs free up resources for service delivery, allowing nonprofits to expand or improve programs that directly benefit the community.
- For Municipalities: Savings on maintenance and security for vacant properties, while CAZs foster safety and pride through active, community-centered use.
- For Communities: Expanded access to essential services, revitalized spaces that address community needs, and enhanced quality of life in CAZ-designated areas.
Implementation Strategy
A pilot program would be launched in select cities with a high volume of vacant properties and demonstrated community need. City councils would work closely with local nonprofits and community leaders to determine CAZ zones, designate available properties, and establish a feedback loop for policy refinement. A public awareness campaign would further inform nonprofits and residents of the program and its benefits.
Conclusion
The “Community Access Zone” policy offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution for cities with underutilized public assets. By prioritizing nonprofits for access to these properties, CAZs provide vital resources that allow organizations to enhance their services and empower underserved communities. This approach maximizes the value of public assets while strengthening the social fabric of the neighborhoods they serve.
Next Steps
Collaborate with city councils, community leaders, and nonprofit associations to build support for CAZ implementation. Gather preliminary data from pilot zones to assess impact and refine the program, preparing for broader rollout in interested municipalities.
This policy reimagines the potential of public lands to benefit local communities directly, fostering a model of partnership between municipalities and nonprofits to drive sustainable, community-centered development.