Community driven affordable housing

In 2015, CLAM was approached by members of the Stinson Beach community with a proposal: to create the first affordable, community-owned homes in Stinson. For years, local realtor Chris Harrington had been keeping tabs on local properties that had the potential to become affordable housing. When he learned of plans to sell an 8-unit apartment complex steps from the beach, he and a group of community members organized a meeting with the owners, Paul Goldsmith and Carin Garland, and the County.

Through the leadership of Chris Harrington, the Stinson community won the support of the owners, the County of Marin, and the Marin Community Foundation for the purchase. With community, political, and foundation support in place, they approached CLAM – and we were delighted to be a part of such an inspiring grassroots effort.

This 2016 acquisition prevented the displacement of 6 residents, most of whom are longtime Stinson Beach community members, and all of whom are deeply invested in West Marin.

Learn more about efforts to create and steward affordable homes in Stinson Beach here.