Current through October 15, 2024
Section 250-RICR-110-00-8.8 - Soliciting Farmer-BuyersA. Subsequent to the Department entering into a Purchase & Sale Contract for the purchase of a farm property, the Department may solicit applications from prospective farmer-buyers for the purchase of the protected farm property. Solicitations shall include detailed information about the available farm property, including maps, soil data, and, if there are no existing dwellings, whether a dwelling unit area is permitted, and any limits on its size. Solicitations shall be published widely to farmer advocacy groups and farmer-based organizations, and shall be posted on the DEM website. Farmers shall have no less than 90 days from the solicitation date to submit applications.B. To be eligible to apply, an applicant must demonstrate that, for at least two years, they have operated or managed a farm business that has generated at least $5,000 annual gross farm revenues. C. The Department may maintain a list of interested persons who by affidavit demonstrate their eligibility to apply to purchase farm properties through this program.D. Applicants must submit as part of their application the following, all of which will be kept confidential: 1. Evidence of a minimum of two (2) years' experience operating or managing a farm, including production records and two references;2. A Farm Plan which shall include production plans, equipment and infrastructure needs and upkeep plan, details about anticipated market outlets, location of any proposed dwelling unit area, if permitted, and estimated cost for first year's operation along with a 3-year projected earnings;3. Two (2) previous years' income tax returns;4. A current credit report;5. A current cash flow statement, current balance sheet, and list of assets.6. Other follow-up information as may be requested by the Department.250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-110-00-8.8