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Posted March 5, 2007 by Margaret Frye, Town of Weston:My Selectmen wanted me to ask what other towns that have Christian Campgrounds that are tax exempt do in lieu of taxes?  You can email me directly at townofweston@midmaine.com .  We have a campground that is lake front in town and five years ago they became tax exempt.  They said they would give the town a donation for the services we provide.  We have received only one donation and the town residents are pushing us to collect from them because they get the same benefits that everyone in town does and they don't have to pay for anything.

Responses:

Better first check 36 MRSA 652  L since this is a tricky area unless they agree to an annual PILOT. (Mitch Berkowitz, Bridgton)

If the organization meets the guidelines for exemption, then yes your assessor can apply what they can rightfully be granted. Exemption is not an option for the Selectmen to choose or not choose, it is defined by law.  Whether or not your Selectmen are also the assessors, they are required to follow the property tax laws.  There is a category for benevolent institutions.  Should you have any gray areas of definition, contact Maine Revenue Services. (Sandra Philipon, Turner)

The Town of Wells does not have any Christian Campgrounds. (Leo Ouellette, Wells)