The residents of Crossroads Cooperative (formerly Trailer Terrace Community) in Great Falls formed a cooperative in January 2011 and became resident owned in January 2015. Ron Lorenz has been an active community member since its inception, serving primarily on the Board of Directors. Before becoming resident-owned, the community lacked potable water for years due to high arsenic levels (four times the EPA health standard) and numerous water and sewer system issues. At one point, the state ranked their system among the worst in Montana.
To address these problems, the residents formed both a ROC and the South Winds Water & Sewer District (SWWSD) to overhaul their infrastructure. As chair of the SWWSD Board, Ron worked closely with local, state, and federal officials to secure $10.5 million in grant funding. Under his leadership, the community completed three phases of water and sewer system upgrades.
Ron’s commitment has not only secured funding for vital improvements but also ensured long-term sustainability and improved quality of life for all residents. He has fostered member engagement, advocated for resident ownership, and consistently participates in trainings by NeighborWorks Montana and ROC USA. His leadership reflects the ROC’s mission through resourcefulness, collaboration, and dedication to the community’s growth and well-being.
Learn more about resident owned communities in Montana. MANUFACTURED HOUSING