JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A local group brought in the founder of the Grand Forks Land Trust to speak on what the program is and if it was possible to implement in Jamestown.

Emily Wright is the Director and Founder of the Grand Forks Land Trust. During a meeting on Wednesday, January 12th, Wright explained that the group was formed to address the lack of starter homes in their community. According to the Stutsman County Housing Authority, Jamestown is facing the same issue. The program is implemented in 46 separate states with 260 land trusts nationwide. The program is currently only in Grand Forks and Minot.

The trust purchases land and builds or renovates homes on that lot and retains ownership of the land.

By maintaining ownership of the land, the resident that purchases the house will save money and the CLT will provide subsidy. Wright says the program has ultimately improved the neighborhoods where they’ve built and renovated.

When asked if the program could be implemented not only in one community, but a region, Wright pointed out that it was absolutely possible and a great idea. Wright stated it would be a chance for North Dakota to lead the way if the program could be implemented in smaller communities.