🌱 Pilot Program: “Creeker Cottage Co-op”

A Modular, Mixed-Ownership Micro-Village for Attainable Housing

🎯 Objective:

To demonstrate a scalable, low-cost, community-centered housing solution for working families, veterans, and multigenerational households by building a small neighborhood of modular homes on a shared land trust.

🏘️ Core Features:

  1. 10–20 Modular Homes (Cottages)
    • 1–2 bedroom units
    • Built off-site, installed in weeks
    • Energy-efficient (solar, low water use)
  2. Community-Owned Land (Land Trust)
    • Land held by a nonprofit (e.g., Does This Help® Housing Trust)
    • Residents own homes but lease land affordably (99-year renewable lease)
  3. Zoning Overlay or Special Use Permit
    • Works within unincorporated or hybrid rural zones
    • Allows for gentle density and shared infrastructure
  4. Shared Amenities
    • Community kitchen
    • Outdoor gathering space or garden
    • High-speed Wi-Fi (included in lease)
  5. Mixed Financing Options
    • Rent-to-own options available
    • Some homes reserved for seniors or veterans
    • Down payment support via local partners or church groups

📍 Ideal Pilot Site Requirements:

  • 1–2 acres of unused or underused land
  • Water access or hauling plan
  • Zoned flexible or possible to rezone (county cooperation)
  • Close to a school, bus line, or work center

💰 Funding Sources:

  • Initial seed from Does This Help® or W3Connect Classroom grant
  • CDBG (Community Development Block Grant)
  • State Housing Trust Funds
  • Crowdfunding for the first model home (community barn-raising approach)

🛠️ Phase Plan:

PhaseTimelineActivities
1. Planning0–3 monthsSecure land, partners, permits, design homes
2. Build First 2 Units4–6 monthsShow viability, test systems
3. Full Build6–12 monthsScale to 10–20 homes, open applications
4. Review & ReportMonth 13Document results, prepare scale-up plan

📊 Expected Outcomes:

  • Homes priced 50–70% below market rate
  • Families become stable and independent
  • Proof of concept for larger-scale adoption
  • Community press and involvement → support for next phase

✅ Bonus Add-ons (Optional):

  • Work-trade housing slots (residents contribute labor)
  • Teach construction techniques to youth via W3Connect Classroom
  • Partner with local churches for land or donations
  • Offer 1-yr internships for builders/apprentices