ALL FAITHS UNITARIAN CONGREGATION

BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING MINUTES

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Call to order - The meeting was called to order by president Joyce Ramay, at 4:02 p.m. Present in addition to Joyce were: Evelyn Evans, vice chairperson, Midge Magstadt, secretary, Doug Cartwright, treasurer, governors: Robert Bennett, David Morgan, and Carol Elrod.

Secretary’s report –The minutes were approved.

Financial reports – (See handouts)

Treasurer’s report – Doug Cartwright reported, that we took in less than expected in December, which has usually been a good month for us. In fact, we ran about $15,000 short of what was expected in 2008. April, October and the end of the year have routinely been our best months, but since September, giving has been off. If the economic situation doesn’t improve it may become necessary to transfer more funds from the Operating Reserve, which obviously cannot continue indefinitely. $12,000 was transferred in 2008.

Checking – Florida Gulf Bank: $5,324.27
Florida Gulf Money Market: $2,591.75
PayPal $70.00
Raymond James Legacy Fund: $3,758.52
Raymond James Operating Reserve: $20,782.18
Total Bank Accounts: $32,526.72

Finance Committee – Doug reported on behalf of the Finance Committee that the budget for 2009 has been cut to the bone. The Budget for 2009 stands at $174,103, which is $990 less than the 2008 Budget. The Board approved a motion to submit the 2009 budget to the congregation for approval at the Annual Budget Meeting on January 25. The Committee also suggested that fundraisers be looked into, and a committee or task force be formed to consider those possibilities. The Board also approved a motion to change the by-laws so that 20 percent of the membership would constitute a quorum in order to conduct business at congregational meetings. This change would be presented to the congregation and voted upon in March. The Finance Committee also suggested the congregation pursue reconciliation with the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fort Myers this year. A first step might be inviting Shire Lane to our Spring Gala. The date for the Gala has not been set at present.

Minister’s Report – Wayne had cardiac surgery Tuesday, January 19 to put in two stents. He was able to return home on January 20, under the care of his daughter and son who are visiting. His prognosis is good. Joyce reported that in about 10 days to 2 weeks, he is scheduled to begin a supervised exercise program as part of his rehabilitation. He expects to be able to give sermons soon. As he recovers, some of his duties may need to be covered by others. People from the congregation may be asked to lead Sunday morning services until Wayne is able to do so.

Committee Reports –

SSC – Doug reported that Crestwell has reported some vandalism, which could be caused by some of our kids. There are times when the children have been in the room unattended. This is being addressed, and Hippy and Adriana will now not open the room until the teacher is present. There have also been some safety concerns and liability issues regarding skateboarding following service. Since Hippy’s son, and a friend are the ones who have been skateboarding, Hippy has been asked to tell them to not skateboard there anymore. The first 4 Sundays in March, Maggie Mullins and Anne Kracmer will be leading Mindful Meditation Sessions. The Memorial Service for David Taylor is scheduled for February 8. Emily Palmer could possibly lead the service if Wayne is unable to do so. Ed Elrod cannot do the sound system at that time, so possibly Robert could, or Joe Gayton has said he would be willing to be trained. Founders Day will be February 22, with Elvira doing the luncheon. It is hoped Elvira can do it for $7 and then we will ask the usual $10 to help cover costs of those to whom we provide the meal for free.

Social Circles – Carol was unable to attend the meeting as she had hosted a marvelous Inauguration Brunch at her home earlier in the day, and also had out of town guests arriving. It was noted that we still do not have a date set for the Gala, so that will be looked into.

Social Outreach – Robert shared that due to needing to concentrate on his own health, he will be stepping down from his responsibilities as Social Outreach Chairman. Evelyn Evans has graciously agreed to step in to finish his term. The Board made a motion and approved this change, adding our personal gratitude both to Robert for all his service, and to Evelyn for her flexibility and willingness to help. Dale Weber has also asked to be replaced as the head of ASAP. It is felt that Nancy McGlasson would be good in this position as she is familiar with the ongoing work there. The position will be offered to Nancy, with the need for consideration to be given due to the fact that she has just begun a new job and may need time to feel established in that before taking on further responsibilities. Other things going on with ASAP included the successful food and clothing drives, and the upcoming White Elephant Sale on Feb. 22. Evelyn reported that there will be a Bake Sale to benefit Hope House on February first. The Fresh Market brought in $158 for the CIW in January. Craig Heller is planning a lunch meeting at his home in Feb. to talk about the upcoming trip to the Dominican Repbublic with Global Community Engagement. There was a conflict about the date, and Evelyn said she would speak to him about finding a different date.

Membership– Pat Nuding had submitted a report that we now have 238 members, 7 Dual members, and 94 Friends. There was discussion regarding establishing a policy change to denote a shift from Membership status to Friend status, if people move away, or haven’t been in attendance in 2 years. They would be kept on the mailing list, unless they ask to be removed. The numbers do make a difference in things like the establishment of a quorum at business meetings. A motion was carried to implement this procedure, and other logistics will continue to be investigated.

Old Business – Wayne’s recent surgery was a reminder that we must not postpone pursuing ideas about the direction for All Faith’s future. It was recognized that this is something the entire congregation needs to be able to have input about. Dave expressed that a path of leadership is needed in order to take us forward, or else members will gradually drift away. He has agreed to put together a preliminary offering regarding how this could be presented to the congregation and e- mail it to Board members for further input.

New Business – The preceding paragraph combined the Old and New Business that was discussed.

Next Meeting - Our next meeting will be held Tuesday, February 17, at 4:00 p.m. in the Edwards Building. The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Midge Magstadt, Secretary

2008 Board Minutes

December 16

November 18

October 21

September 16

August 21

July 15

June 17

May 20

April 15

March 18

February 19

January 15