Indepth analysis of persistant problems in the field of community development. Woodstock's research reports contribute to the body of knowledge used by policymakers and community development practitioners.
This alert examines two proposed changes to the
regulation of the Community Reinvestment Act: A regulation
calling for the collection and disclosure of small business loan
application and origination data for banks and savings and loans by
census tract. Second, a proposal calling for the use of some objective
measures as key indicators of a bank's responsiveness to credit and
capital needs. Woodstock Institute found that on both these central
changes, the revised proposal is a substantial retreat from earlier
progress.
Describes the benefits of collaboration between CDFIs and mainstream
financial institutions; regulatory and legislative opportunities for
building and strengthening such partnerships, and an analysis of the
types of relationships that have evolved in recent years. Detailed case
studies describe how creative partnerships have developed between a
variety of CDFIs and conventional lenders.
Examines home lending patterns in the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph area. Identifies possible lending disparities and community credit needs. Highlights ways to improve access to affordable mortgage credit for low-and moderate-income community residents, particularly those in Benton Harbor. Includes recommendations for local planning and action.
An analysis comparing the residents of a modest-income urban
neighborhood to jobs in and around the neighborhood, utilizing
specialized census data showing how many residents work in and around
the neighborhood. The study provides evidence supporting the importance
to local residents of economic activity in city neighborhoods.
Advises community development financial institutions on how they can use CRA to attract more resources from banks and thrifts, thereby building scale and increasing their impact in their communities. Recommends ways CRA can improve regulation of community development lending and investments.
