Raj Bhakta is offering the former Green Mountain College campus in Poultney, Vermont, free of charge, seeking a steward aligned with his vision for reviving Western Civilization and the Christian faith.
POULTNEY, VT – Raj Bhakta is making headlines by offering 115 acres of land for free. The former Green Mountain College campus, which he purchased in 2020 for $5 million, is now available to a steward who shares his vision of revitalizing Western Civilization and promoting the Christian faith.
Bhakta, the founder of Bhakta Spirits, acquired the expansive property at a time when it was appraised at nearly $20 million. He is specifically looking for a Catholic organization—such as a university, diocese, or religious order—that can utilize the land for the mission and formation of the Church.
Despite his initial investment and ambitious plans to transform the Poultney landmark into a mixed-use development featuring hotels, luxury condominiums, and a micro distillery, the campus has largely remained dormant. A recent attempt to secure redevelopment permits for nearly 100 hotel rooms and a fitness center was abruptly withdrawn last autumn, leaving the historic Georgian architecture and its 20 buildings without a clear path forward.
The decision to donate the land comes in light of the increasing financial burden associated with the estate. Documents from previous permit applications indicate that Bhakta has been spending as much as $2 million annually on general upkeep and operations of the property.
Even for a new owner who might achieve nonprofit and tax-exempt status, the costs of maintaining the grounds remain substantial. A request for proposals published this month cautions prospective applicants that they should anticipate spending at least $1 million per year on basic maintenance. However, a more realistic budget of $1.5 million is suggested to adequately address the significant amount of deferred maintenance required to keep the campus functional.
As Bhakta seeks a new steward for the property, the future of the former Green Mountain College campus hangs in the balance. The opportunity presents a unique chance for organizations aligned with his vision to take on a historic site with potential for meaningful use.
According to India-West, the outcome of this initiative could significantly impact the community and the preservation of the campus’s historical significance.