01
Before the meeting
- Share the current farm-file summary in advance so no one is reacting to surprises.
- Name one facilitator and one note-taker; neither needs to make a final decision.
- Agree that the purpose is to organize facts and next questions, not to produce a legal agreement.
- Set a time limit and schedule a follow-up if more information is needed.
02
Open with the facts we share
What ownership, lease, parcel, and expense records do we have?
What is unknown or needs verification?
Who is communicating externally right now, and what should be shared with all owners?
Which questions belong with qualified local professionals?
03
Discuss the paths without forcing a vote
Use neutral language. The goal is to surface priorities and information needs around each path—not to recommend one.
- Keeping: What would we need to understand about responsibilities, time, communication, and professional support?
- Leasing: What written arrangement and parcel facts do we need to understand before discussing any change?
- Selling: What ownership, tax, appraisal, family, and timing questions need qualified professional advice?
- Splitting an interest: What family, ownership, tax, financing, and legal questions would require local review?
04
Close with a written next-step list
What did we agree is a fact, and what remains an open question?
Who will gather each missing item, and by when?
Which professional should review each question?
When will we reconvene, and how will we keep notes visible to everyone?