LACLT honored

The Laconia Area Community Land Trust (LACLT) has been named the Real Estate/Construction/Engineering Business of the Year by Business NH Magazine.

The LACLT was one of six businesses in as many categories selected for the honor by a screening committee of the New Hampshire Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and a "panel of excellence" composed of past winners of the award. Businesses are judged on their performance and their contributions to their industry and communities.

"LACLT is extremely honored by this esteemed award," said executive director Linda Harvey. "It is a terrific affirmation of our successful work. We are especially proud to have the business sector recognize our business skills, savvy and strengths," she continued, adding that "doors, members, and supporters can be confident that their charitable dollars not only have a tremendous impact in the community but also are carefully invested by a nonprofit with recognized excellence in business planning, fiscal integrity and business practices and performance."

The LACLT develops and manages permanently affordable housing. The organization has developed 98 units, all of which pay their full share of property taxes. Most recently the LACLT redeveloped the old Vernitron property on Union Avenue, replacing the abandoned factory with Millview, a new complex of 18 rental units overlooking the city.

This year, the LACLT has arranged financing for the construction of another 40 units.

"The LACLT has a sound mission, clear vision, fiscal strength and strategic business planning practices," said Congressman Jeb Bradley, who originally nominated the LACLT for the award. Bruce Clow, former president of Laconia Savings Bank, supported the nomination, describing the LACLT as "a highly sophisticated affordable housing developer with a keen sense of community needs and broad community support." Theresa Pinto, executive director of the Greater Laconia-Weirs Beach Chamber of Commerce, praised the organization for its contribution to the quality of life and standard of living of working families in the region.

The LACLT will be featured in the May issue of NH Business Magazine and at the awards ceremony at the Radisson Hotel at the Center of New Hampshire in Manchester on May 24.