What is a community benefit agreement?

Definition

A community benefit agreement, often abbreviated CBA, records negotiated commitments associated with a development project. Terms can cover infrastructure, jobs, training, environmental mitigation, public services, monitoring and financial contributions.

A useful agreement defines responsible parties, timelines, measurements, enforcement and public reporting. Benefits should address documented local impacts rather than substitute vague promotional promises for broader review and approval.

Acronyms and aliases

CBA acronymcommunity benefits agreement variant

Frequently asked questions

What can a community benefit agreement include?

It can include infrastructure funding, jobs, training, environmental protections, public services, monitoring and reporting.

What makes a community benefit agreement credible?

Clear obligations, measurable outcomes, deadlines, enforcement, transparency and accountable parties make it credible.

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