MINUTES - DECEMBER VESTRY MEETING
St. Peter’s Church - December 4, 2006
Fr George Young opened the meeting @ 6:05 pm. All seated and incoming Vestry members (Mary Lynn Torchia, Norma Norris, Ed Grissom, David Lott) were present except Bill Dickson. This was an abbreviated meeting as to facilitate Advent observances at the Youngs’ home.
NEXT MEETING: Jan 8, 2007 @ 6 pm.
Following a few moments of centering, Toby Atkinson shared reflections from her three years’ Vestry service.
Minutes from the meeting of the November 13 Meeting were approved without exception
.
Treasurer’s Report:
Fr George reviewed the financial results for the 11 months though November. Trey Warren inquired about plans for the BUB debt ($360,000) and the monthly interest charges (approximately $2,200) payable as from Jan ‘07 (previously paid out of a reserve established for that purpose). This matter has been discussed at various times throughout the year.
Fr George updated us by saying that the Diocesan Finance Committee is considering a proposal (or two) which might allay some of our anxieties. However, that Committee doesn’t meet again until end Jan so for the time being, the matter will be left as an item to be worked into our thinking/planning for the year ahead.
Rector’s Report:
1) Safeguarding God’s Children - we have two Parish members (Kim Geib & Caroline Morrison) qualified to offer the training the Diocese requires of all staff and all those involved in teaching/caring for children and adolescents. This 3-hour program will be offered periodically; any Vestry person not previously a participant in this type of training/orientation is urged to attend.
2) Pledge update - Fr George sending a reminder via email urging those who haven’t returned their pledge cards to do so. The next step will be to ask Vestry members to make phone calls underscoring the importance of this matter.
3) Capital Campaign - Pete Rauchenstein, principal in the consulting firm Fr George has been discussing thoughts about our ‘07 capital campaign with, will present to Vestry and various Parish leaders at noon on Dec 17th. Current plans are to have Pete’s firm begin a feasibility study the week of Feb 19; begin the campaign by mid-March; and conclude in early May. Among the significant items the Campaign is intended to fund: the $360,000 BUB bank note; renovation of the parlor and enclosing the kitchen porch; cemetery repair and rehabilitation; repairs and restoration of the Church building. The total goal amount will be determined during the feasibility study but is estimated at +/~ $1 million.
4) Cemetery - The Angel of Hope statue is in place and a compelling addition to the cemetery fixtures. Cemetery repair and maintenance will be a more prominent part of our ‘07 Budget (and the “needs” identified in the upcoming Capital Campaign). The Cemetery is a critical part of St. Peter’s history and thus will be prominent in our Sesquicentennial observances.
Other Business:
REMINDER: March 2 & 3 Diocesan Vestry Conference hosted by Bishop Howard @ Camp Weed.
Conclusion:
Fr George led us in closing prayer and we adjourned at 7:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
John C. Train, Clerk
