So, here's the plan

1. acquire at least 30 acres of land within the Denton County, preferably within city limits.
2. use ½ the land for
   1. homes built using (cob, strawbale, adobe, cast earth, cob/strawbale combo:
      1. 6 units of 5 homes for families (family is defined as at least 1 child under the age of 18 and 1 parent or guardian),
      2. 1 home with 12 single rooms, community livingroom, diningroom, and kitchen and bathrooms
      3. use meters to track energy efficiency comparisons (apples to apples)
      4. solar and wind powered ( see magwind)
      5. all homes handicap accessible
   2. Community center
      1. community kitchen/dining room
      2. library
      3. playroom
      4. laundry facilities (front loaders)
      5. workout room
      6. offices
   3. Chaos Hall
   4. parks and walking paths

HERE'S THE COOL PART:

Since housing and utilities are the largest expense in a family's budget, we are doing what we can to eliminate, and effectively redefine poverty.

THE HOW:

We are using SWEAT hours in exchange for rent and most utilities.  These are community service hours to be done either in the Shalen Opportunities community or within Denton County.  The SWEAT hours must be approved beforehand by the board of directors.  (for more info on approved hours)

A total of 693 SWEAT hours must be performed per year, 260 hours of which must be performed by the applicant, and 52 hours must be done before move in (first month's rent).

You must reapply to renew your “lease” yearly.

ALL ADULTS MUST AGREE TO SUBMIT TO A BACKGROUND CHECK BEFORE AND DURING THE LEASE AGREEMENT.  NO EXCEPTIONS.  FAILURE TO DO SO IS GROUNDS FOR EVICTION.   We will refuse occupancy to those that have violent crimes, theft, arson, and ANY crime involving children.  This is family friendly community.

This is a general overview.  At this point, we have 15 interested families on the waiting list for the application.  If you are interested, or have questions, please email us.