As Chair of the Board of Linden Housing Co-operative, I’ve had many conversations over the past few years about what makes co-op housing different. Linden will not be a typical rental building, and that distinction matters.

In a co-op, the people who live there are members, not tenants. There is no landlord seeking to maximize profit. Instead, members collectively govern the community, elect a board of directors, and share responsibility for how the co-op operates. It is a model built on stability, participation, and mutual respect.

For many in our community, that idea is unfamiliar. But once understood, it tends to resonate. People are looking for housing that is secure, predictable, and grounded in something more than a transactional arrangement.

Intentionally designed spaces encourage connection. Linden offers a community kitchen, shared gathering areas, a verandah and gardens. These are central to the idea that community housing can also provide a sense of belonging.

Members are responsible for contributing to the life of the co-op. That might include helping with gardening, participating in a committee, or supporting the social life of the community. A four-hour meaningful contribution toward building community is asked of each member monthly.

An important feature at Linden is providing an entirely smoke-free property, inside and outside.

The first members are on schedule to move in January 2027. Applications can be found on our website lindencoop.ca. Successful applicants will be invited to attend a mandatory information session in August where co-operative living and what membership involves will be explained, followed by a Q&A period.

Ensuring that Linden provides cost-effective housing has been a priority. Monthly housing charges will not exceed $1210 for a studio, $1350 for a one-bedroom, and $1503 for a two-bedroom. Of our 39 units, 10 will be deeply affordable — working alongside Lanark County’s Rent-Geared-to-Income list.

Heat pumps will be installed in each unit for both heating and cooling. The building is designed to achieve a significant reduction in energy use compared to conventional construction. Boasting 32% lower energy use than a standard build translates into lower operating costs over time, benefiting members directly.

Another priority is accessibility. Eight units are specifically designed for members who use, or anticipate using, a wheelchair. Linden is dedicated to being a place where people can live comfortably as their needs evolve over time, supporting those with mobility concerns as well as encouraging aging in place.

Local artists are invited to express interest in creating commissioned original work for Linden’s common spaces — another impactful way to reflect local community within the building itself.

There is no single solution to the enormous housing challenges many face. Co-operative housing offers a path that prioritizes stability, participation and community. If that resonates with you, applications open on May 15 at lindencoop.ca.