January Newsletter
(Este correo electrónico continúa en español a continuación...)
Dear BCLT Community,
Welcome to the first edition of our new monthly newsletter. We hope you’ll find it both informative and a quick, worthwhile read. Through these updates, we aim to keep you in the loop about our projects and properties and share voices from across the BCLT community.
We begin 2025 thinking about the families on the ranches in the Point Reyes National Seashore who find themselves in the position of losing what for many has been generational housing. It’s incredibly sad and I hope Bolinas can rally to support our neighbors. I’m encouraged by the immediate response from the affordable housing community and other NGOs throughout West Marin, Marin Community Foundation, and the County. There is a concerted effort to try to quickly figure out temporary housing while permanent housing comes online. While the BCLT is not taking a direct role in the response to this crisis, we are obviously ready to assist in any way we can given our resources and expertise. If you have ideas on temporary housing solutions for those in the Park affected by the ranch closures, please see this link to learn more.
Closer to home, we’re excited to share our priorities for the first quarter as we work to build on the momentum from 2024.
Tacherra Ranch Acquisition: We endeavor to close the acquisition of Tacherra Ranch by late summer. While a delay in receiving grant funds has set us slightly behind schedule, we’re optimistic that we can see this through.
Enhanced Communication: Internally and externally, we’re committed to improving how we share updates and listening to feedback. We have a powerful story to tell and much happening this year! I’m especially eager to strengthen communication with our residents and implement a property management system that is transparent and user-friendly.
31 Wharf Road: Partnering with Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, we’re wrapping up final details to start construction this spring. This project will bring eight affordable homeownership opportunities to the community.
Gas Station Decommissioning: We’re working to decommission the former gas station, a significant undertaking requiring funding to remove underground tanks and complete this phase of BCLT’s work.
Financial Sustainability: After a challenging financial year in 2024, we’re prioritizing stabilizing our finances. Delays in receiving funds from the Encampment Resolution Funding grant for the Bo-Linda Vista Campground required us to cover these expenses internally, impacting our reserves. This year, we’re especially focused on exploring new grant opportunities to support our operating budget and fundraising.
We’re energized by the work ahead and the opportunity to continue creating positive change together. If you have any questions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
Jeff Clapp
Interim Executive Director