Here is a simple idea with lot of potential.
Cooperatively-owned real estate could serve artists, nonprofits, or just about any community-minded group AND counter some of the challenges of gentrification.
A group of New Yorkers “came up with a brilliantly simple idea to take back their city.
The plan is this: Anyone can join the co-op by pitching in $10. (There’s also a hardship fund so you won’t be turned away if you don’t have the cash on hand.) Then, members democratically choose a commercial space to purchase. Throw in some help from the org’s lawyers and a little community oversight, and you’ve got a property for local businesses to operate, for artists to work, and for community groups to organize — that’s guaranteed to have affordable rent forever.”
For more info, check out the video and links below.
http://nycreic.com/
http://www.yesmagazine.org/new-economy/neighbors-got-together-buy-vacant-buildings-renting-bike-shop-brewer
