A community benefits agreement (CBA) is an agreement between a developer and a community that outlines specific benefits that will be provided to the community in exchange for their support or cooperation. These agreements can cover a wide range of topics, including job training and employment, affordable housing, green space, and infrastructure investments.

One example of a community benefits agreement is the 125th Street Rezoning CBA in New York City. The agreement was reached in 2017 between community organizations and the city as part of a larger rezoning effort aimed at spurring economic development in the area.

Under the terms of the agreement, the city committed to investing $15 million in affordable housing, job training, and other community benefits. The agreement also included provisions for local hiring preferences and a commitment to ensuring that at least 25% of all new housing units built in the area would be affordable for low- and moderate-income residents.

In exchange for these benefits, community organizations pledged to support the rezoning effort and work with developers to ensure that new development projects aligned with the community`s needs and priorities. The agreement also included provisions for ongoing monitoring and enforcement to ensure that the community benefits were being delivered as promised.

Community benefits agreements like the one in Harlem can be an effective tool for ensuring that development projects benefit local residents and businesses. By engaging with communities early in the planning process and addressing their concerns and priorities, developers can build support for their projects and avoid costly delays and opposition.

If you are a developer or community organizer interested in exploring the potential of a community benefits agreement, there are many resources available online to help you get started. These include case studies, best practices guides, and model agreements that can serve as a starting point for your negotiations. With careful planning and collaboration, a community benefits agreement can be a win-win for all parties involved.