Community Ownership: The Fight for Affordable Housing
Last January, Ocean Management purchased a 70-unit building in New Haven, leading to deteriorating conditions for tenants. In response, tenants at 311 Blake Street organized and formed the Blake Street Tenants Union, advocating for better living conditions and affordable housing.
The union’s collective bargaining efforts resulted in the first collectively bargained leases in Connecticut, showcasing the power of tenant control over housing. The tenants are now facing the possibility of purchasing the building themselves, ensuring that it remains affordable and well-maintained.
With support from organizations like HOME INC, tenants are exploring options for ownership, either through a benevolent landlord or as a cooperative. This move towards community-owned housing could serve as a model for other tenants facing similar challenges in an increasingly unstable rental market.
By taking control of their building, the Blake Street Tenants Union hopes to inspire more tenants to fight for their rights and create stable, affordable housing solutions for all.