Activity log
Here's a list of some of the background work that we've done on the project.
- Developed a vision statement.
- Opened a bank account. Eight members made initial investments to cover early expenses.
- Formed a legal entity, the Iowa City Cohousing LLC, that will be the development arm of the cohousing community.
- Toured a number of cohousing communities including Eco Village in Fairfield, IA and Arboretum Cohousing in Madison, WI.
- Sent representatives to the National Cohousing Conference (2010, 2011).
- Listed Iowa City Cohousing on the website of the Cohousing Association of the United States.
- Investigated development options.
- Explored methods of incorporating affordable home ownership and rental options.
- Studied financing models.
- Consulted with the City of Iowa City Planning and Community Development Department.
- Talked with bankers, realtors, architects, developers and other professionals.
- Explored over 15 possible sites.
- Conducted orientation sessions seeking new members.
- Established requirements for voting membership.
- Started work on a site plan that will determine home locations.
- Worked on developing plans for the common house.
- Purchased land. (April, 2013)
- Developed policies that will apply to life in the community (See current list.)
- Worked with architect and engineer to develop site plans.
- Conducted several "good neighbor" meetings with neighborhood residents.
- Presented plan to the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission where it was unanimously approved. (May, 2015)
- Site plan approved by Iowa City Council (July, 2015)