communityowned

Communityowned refers to assets, enterprises, or resources that are owned and controlled by a local community rather than by private individuals or corporations. It describes structures in which residents have formal ownership and influence over decision making, often through democratic governance mechanisms.

In most communityowned models, control is exercised on a one member, one vote basis. Members elect a board, and profits are either reinvested in the project, used to benefit the community, or distributed as patronage according to rules set out in the governing documents. Legal forms commonly used include cooperatives, community benefit societies, and community land trusts, though other nonprofit or charitable structures can also serve similar purposes.

Common areas of activity include energy, housing, and communications. Community energy projects operate local renewable generation and distribution schemes. Community housing initiatives provide affordable homes through cooperative ownership or land trusts. Community broadband networks aim to expand affordable, local-controlled internet access. Other applications include cultural venues, parks, and land stewardship projects.

Benefits often emphasized by supporters include greater local accountability, retention of income within the community, resilience to economic shocks, long-term affordability, and alignment with social or environmental goals. Challenges can include raising capital, navigating regulatory regimes, coordinating diverse stakeholders, and balancing inclusive participation with efficient decision making.

Legal and regulatory contexts vary by country, influencing how communityowned structures are formed and governed. The concept is linked to broader movements such as the cooperative sector, mutual organizations, and community land trusts, which share aims of local empowerment and sustainable stewardship.

See also: cooperative movement, mutual aid, social enterprise, community land trust.