Purdue Research Foundation seeks 100% exemption on two parcels; board hears lease and charitable‑purpose arguments

Representatives from the Purdue Research Foundation and Purdue University appeared before the Elkhart County appeals board to seek 100% exemption for two parcels (land and personal property). The petitioner submitted Form 136 applications, a lease agreement, articles of incorporation, and bylaws. The presenters said the lease requires Purdue University to pay property taxes and that the foundation holds the land to further Purdue’s educational and research mission.

PRF counsel and staff pointed the board to statutory exemption paths. As presented, one statutory basis was Indiana Code 6‑1.1‑10‑2B: when a lease requires a state educational institution to pay property taxes and the property is used for educational purposes, the property may qualify for exemption. PRF also cited Indiana Code 6‑1.1‑10‑16 arguing the foundation is organized for charitable purposes and holds property for Purdue’s benefit. On the record, PRF explained it is not seeking exemption for certain improvements (a residence/building) that are leased to a tenant and used for non‑exempt purposes.

Board members asked about how PRF acquires land and where proceeds from a future sale would go. PRF representatives explained the foundation, as a private charitable entity, can acquire and hold property and that proceeds must be used for exempt purposes. The board heard details about on‑site educational uses (a forage garden and hosted extension events) and the property’s historical uniqueness (the Stuckman farm and Wagner ditch features). The hearing closed after the submission of materials; no immediate board decision was announced on the record.