Workforce Home Ownership
A City of Fort Bragg
&
Housing Mendocino Coast
Partnership
Agenda
Brief overview of Housing Land Trust model
Housing Mendocino Coast - History and Cast of Characters Existing Funding Sources
Potential for Public Private Partnership between City of Fort Bragg and HMC
What is a Community Land Trust & How Does It Work?
HMC owns and holds the title on “the land” forever.
HMC leases land to homeowner through 99-year ground lease.
Homes sold to families earning up to 120% of Area Median Income.
Homeowner owns the home and all improvements
HMC requires homeowner to share the affordability that has been created with future homeowners.
Who is Housing Mendocino Coast (HMC)?
A Community Land Trust dedicated to providing home ownership opportunities to households earning up to 120% of area median income.
A 501c3 non-profit initiated by the City of Fort Bragg.
HMC received a Federal Appropriation of $820,000 from Congressman Jared Huffman.
In 2023, the City allocated the 5-year Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Program funds to HMC In 2025, HMC received an infusion of expertise with the addition of several new board, including individuals who previously served on the Habitat for Humanity/Fuller Center board.
HMC’s Board Members and Expertise
Cynthia Sharon, Board President, Licensed General Contractor and Housing Designer Nikki Houtz, Board Secretary, Director of Stewardship of the Mendocino Land Trust Lisa Cvecko, Treasurer and retired CPA
Jay Andreis, Board member, architectural designer and former Planning Commissioner Cristina Mathews, Board member, attorney in private practice.
Lacy Sallas, Board member, Grant Coordinator for the City.
Sarah McCormick, Board member, Economic Development and Housing
HMC Progress
Project Development
Land search and feasibility analysis of six different properties for purchase.
In escrow to purchase 251 S Franklin.
Prepared RFPs and have proposals to complete required studies for Planning Permits.
Prepared Preliminary Site Plan
Developed/Selected three base house designs.
Organization Development
Developed new active board
Completed and resubmitted non-profit and reporting paperwork to Federal and State government.
Researching grant requirements.
Prepared and adopted organizational procurement policies Secured legal services to clarify conditions attached to funding sources
First Project -251 S Franklin
Benefits
Parcel is 1 acre
Zoning allows up to 24 units/acre w commercial component Close to downtown/residential neighborhood
All required utilities are on site
251 S Franklin
Draft Site Plan
12 units
Three 2 story “farmhouse” units
Three “craftsman” units
Two “bungalow” units
Two mixed-use units (commercial space on first floor)
Two ADA units
Each unit would include a yard
Current View - vacant
Craftsman
Farm house
Potential View – with homes
Craftsman
Farm house
Project Funding
HMC currently has $1.39 million
Opportunity for Public Private Partnership with the City.
Commit ARPA Funds to Public Private Partnership & spend them by Dec 2026 deadline.
Allows HMC to build more units more quickly.
HMC would set aside (or prioritize) 2-4 units for income-qualified City employees.
Construction Schedule with Public Private Partnership
Complete project in 8 years
11 units in 5 years, 14 units in 8 years
2-4 units reserved or prioritized for income eligible City staff
Construction Schedule without Public Private Partnership Able to start project
Only 5 units in 5 years
Next Steps?
Develop Cooperative Agreement for ARPA Funds and disburse funds for planning studies (Summer, 2026) Complete planning and permitting process for project (Fall, 2026) Purchase property (Oct. 2026)
Start construction (Spring, 2027)
Sell homes to community families (Winter, 2027 - 2029)
Build potential partnerships with other local employers (such as schools and hospital) to build workforce housing for their employees.