The Future of Housing in Hamilton County Starts Here
Expanding housing options for a thriving, diverse community.
HCHC Toolkit
This toolkit is designed to help HCHC partners confidently speak about the Collaborative, advocate effectively, and share consistent messaging about the importance of housing options in Hamilton County.
Overview of HCHC
What is the Hamilton County Housing Collaborative (HCHC)?
HCHC is a coalition of cross sector leaders, including nonprofits, developers, businesses, educators, government, and health care – committed to ensuring that everyone in Hamilton County has access to a safe, stable, and affordable home. We believe a full range of housing options strengthens our economy, supports local employers, and allows every resident to thrive.
Shared Talking Points
Use these when speaking publicly, on social media, or in conversations with peers:
“This isn’t about building housing for ‘other people’ - this is about housing for our teachers, EMTs, cashiers, aging parents, and grown children who want to stay near home.”
“Hamilton County is stronger when we have housing choices for every income level.”
“Employers need a stable workforce - and workers need stable housing. Housing is economic development.”
“We're not asking for a handout - we're asking for housing options.”
Messaging Materials
Consider this a quick content folder for reference or sharing:
Community Land Trust Explainer
What is a CLT?
A community land trust is a nonprofit that acquires and stewards land to ensure long-term affordable housing. Homes are owned by residents, but the land is held by the trust – keeping prices stable and homes in community hands.
HCHC’s Role
We are exploring a countywide CLT model to preserve affordability and expand generational housing opportunities. Members may be asked to participate in governance or community engagement.
FAQ’s
What is attainable housing?
Who benefits from attainable housing?
Does attainable housing lower property values?
How does zoning impact attainable housing?
Is CLT ownership different than “traditional” home ownership?
For the homeowner, not really. A CLT owner has the same responsibility for maintaining their home and paying the mortgage, the same right to exclusive use and enjoyment of the property, as a “traditional” homeowner.
Who can buy a CLT home?
CLTs not only assist lower-income households, but in many markets like Hamilton County, where affordability is broader and rapidly growing challenge, CLT programs often help more moderate- and even middle-income families achieve home ownership.
Can CLT homeowners build wealth?
Yes. The homeowner will build equity as they pay down their mortgage, and as determined by the resale formula. The owner and the CLT will share in the appreciation of the property over time.
How are CLTs funded?
Startup funds often come from banks, philanthropy, or public partners. Long-term operations may be supported by ground lease fees, grants, and development revenue.
Who controls a CLT?
The community. CLT’s are governed by a community-based Board of Directors that is typically 1/3 home owners, 1/3 community residents and business representatives, and 1/3 key local non-profit and public-sector stakeholders.
Ways Members Can Help
- Share your support publicly on social media or in newsletters
- Invite HCHC speakers to community groups or business associations
- Share your own story or testimonial (as an employer, neighbor, or resident)
- Participate in workgroups, events, and advocacy efforts
- Connect us with local champions or potential partners
Share Your Story
Housing shapes our lives, businesses, and communities. Have you faced challenges finding housing? Struggled to hire due to workforce shortages? Your experience can inspire change and help shape solutions in Hamilton County.
What Kind of Stories Are We Looking For?
Young Adults
· A recent college grad with a full-time job but still living in their parents basement because rent is out of reach.
· A young couple trying to save for their first home, but priced out of the community they grew up in.
Creative Voices
· An artist, musician, or craftsperson whose work enriches our culture but struggles to find a place to live near their studio or gallery.
Essential Workers
· A home health aide, teacher, or bus driver who can’t afford housing near their job and faces long, costly commutes.
· A childcare worker or barista who makes your morning easier but lives 45 minutes away because of limited rental options.
Seniors & Retirees
· An empty-nester looking to downsize, but there are no smaller, affordable homes in their neighborhood.
· A retired resident on a fixed income who has to choose between paying for housing or prescriptions.
Local Employers
· A small business owner struggling to recruit or retain staff because workers can’t afford to live nearby.
· A company leader who wants to grow but sees employees move away due to housing costs.
