Community Benefits Agreement (CBA)
Definition
Legally-binding contract between developers and community organizations outlining specific benefits the project will provide: local jobs, affordable housing, environmental protections, parks, or services. Gives residents enforcement power.
Louisville Context
Louisville rarely requires CBAs, giving developers incentives without community input. Dave makes CBAs standard for projects receiving: tax incentives over $100,000, TIF districts, zoning variances, or PILOT agreements. CBAs negotiated with affected neighborhood groups, legally binding, and publicly reported. Benefits typically include: local hiring targets, living wages, affordable housing units, environmental protections, and community space.
Why It Matters
Development affects communities directly—traffic, displacement, jobs, environment. CBAs give residents voice and power to demand benefits, not just accept impacts. Developers get incentives; residents get guarantees.
Dave’s Proposal
Require Community Benefits Agreements for all development projects receiving city incentives over $100,000. CBAs negotiated with affected neighborhoods, legally binding, and publicly reported on compliance.