Since the campaign to save St. John Point began in early December, 2016 there are a number of questions that we are frequently asked. We hope readers will find the following information useful.
1. Will I receive a tax receipt?
YES. The Mayne Island Conservancy Society (the Conservancy) is a registered charity that issues a tax receipt for all donations of $20 or more.
2. When will the Conservancy need the actual cash as opposed to a pledge of funds?
The transaction needs to be completed by November 30, 2017. Pledges will be called on or around October 1.
3. How will I be recognized for my donation?
Your pledge/donation will be listed on the Recognition Wall of the St. John Point website. You may include your name, remain anonymous or have it listed in the name of someone else. On site recognition is yet to be determined.
4. What is American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts (American Friends)?
American Friends is a U.S. 501 (c)(3) charity, based in Washington state, created to support conservation of Canada’s natural heritage. American Friends and the Conservancy are working in partnership to achieve this cross-border transaction.
5. Who will own the property?
The Conservancy and American Friends will briefly hold title before it is transferred to a suitable government body such as the CRD or a national–scale conservation organization. We anticipate this to happen almost immediately upon completion of the sale.
6. Why is the Conservancy raising more than the purchase price?
To cover all costs associated with the transaction and transfer of title to a suitable government body or a national–scale conservation organization, possible transfer tax, substantial legal costs, campaign costs and a stewardship fund for the property’s long-term management.
7. How will the property be used?
This will ultimately be determined by the title-holding partner in collaboration with the Conservancy. Conservation covenants will protect the ecological values. The Conservancy envisions the property being preserved in its natural state with light recreational use by the public on designated trails, beach access and in the open meadow.
8. How do covenants work?
Conservation covenants protect the ecological values of a property in perpetuity in the public interest. They are a legally binding document attached to the property itself, ie. On Title.
9. What happens to my money if the sale doesn’t go through?
Money and/or pledges will be returned to you in full unless you have indicated otherwise, eg. a cash donation that can be used to cover the campaign’s costs.
10. What will happen to the property if the Conservancy ceases to exist?
According to the Conservancy’s Bylaws, its assets must be transferred to a registered charity with similar purposes.
11. What will happen to the land if the Conservancy does not secure it?
The property will go back on the open market and could be subdivided into five desirable waterfront lots.
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