Frequently Asked Questions for Potential Lease holders
Q. Who owns the land? How does VCLT acquire land? A. The Land Trust is sole owner of land acquired by donation or purchase
Q. How do people gain access to the land?
A. By becoming "lessees." The trust is for all who wish to take land off the market. Those with land can gain benefits while helping those without gain access.
Q. As a lessee can we own our own home or buildings?
A. Yes, VCLT only owns the land, not buildings on it.
Q. What happens if we decide to move?
A. A lessee can sell his/her house (not the land) to someone who wants to live on trust land. Equity in the house is yours.
Q. Can I leave the leasehold to my children?
A. Yes, your lease is inheritable, as long as the inheritors sign their own lease and live on the land.
Q. Will the trust dictate how I use my leasehold?
A. Basically, no. Part of the lease, however, is to steward the land and use it productively. The land trust and the lessees must come up with a land management plan together.
Q. Must I live communally on the land?
A. No, the trust does not dictate lifestyles to lessees.
Q. Who makes decisions for the trust?
A. Various types of decisions are made by the Board, the committees, and the membership, which has the final power when there is a disagreement.
Q. Where is the land VCLT presently holds in trust?
A. VCLT owns land in Colrain, Ashfield, Greenfield and Wendell.
