PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • December 29, 2021
In his opinion piece (Maine Voices, Dec. 21), Jerome A. Collins started what should be a rational discussion about how moving taxable property into land trust ownership affects local property taxes. Having property for outdoor recreation is beneficial to communities. The new wave of land conservation has gone beyond passive holding of property in conservation to active education and engagement in the community on issues determined by its leadership to be of importance. When land trust properties are used for income generation, it is not unreasonable to consider subjecting the buildings to local property tax. Dialogue can be healthy. The Maine Coast Heritage Trust could show some leadership on this matter. Criticizing those who initiate the dialogue is unproductive. ~ Susan Graham, Kennebunkport