A reader writes, "News site relating a ruling Wednesday that the science fiction society's headquarters qualifies for a property tax exemption, and that its activities and programs have legitimate educational value."
The issue revolved around the definition of "educational purpose." To be eligible for property tax exemption, nonprofit organizations have to show that their properties are "used exclusively for a charitable or educational purpose to promote the general welfare of the people of the state," according to the tax code.
The Court of Appeals took account of the society's annual young writer's competition. In addition, the society holds writing workshops, has a library for its members and runs an annual convention where science fiction novelists and scientists discuss their work. Judge Alan Wilner, writing for the majority, wrote that those initiatives serve an educational purpose, making the society eligible for the tax exemption.
