VSC Investigates VT Non-Profit Status

The Vermont Studio Center has a case pending in Vermont Supreme Court to determine whether it qualifies for tax-exempt status under current Vermont law.  A decision is expected sometime this spring. Although it is a federal 501(c)(3) organization, the Studio Center has, since its incorporation in 1984, paid full state and local taxes as an expression of its commitment to and appreciation for the town of Johnson. Regardless of the decision in this case, VSC would continue to pay its share of taxes to the town.

VSC is a member of the Alliance of Artists Communities (http://www.artistcommunities.org), an umbrella organization serving more than 600 artists and writers retreat centers across the United States, and one of the only Alliance members to pay state and local taxes. The Studio Center's Board of Trustees, looking to fully understand the institution's obligations in this area, has pursued this case to the Supreme Court in order to get a definitive decision.

We look forward to a decision in the case, which will help clarify this issue for the Vermont Studio Center, the Town of Johnson, and the State of Vermont.

Contact: George Pearlman, VSC Executive Director, 802-635-2727