Item

Discussion

Motion/Action

Agenda

The agenda provided prior to the meeting was reviewed. 

No changes were made to the agenda.

Minutes of March , 2007 meeting

The minutes of the March 13, 2007 meeting were reviewed.  No changes were made. 

The minutes of the March 13, 2007 meeting were approved without objection.

Treasurer’s Report

Margaret Leicach provided a written Treasurer’s report for the Board, a copy of which is attached to these minutes.  Items of note included:

• Increase in pledge payments for the month of March was noted
• Budget currently on the plus side for the first time this year
• Budget process for upcoming fiscal year is proceeding well.

Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report was made, seconded and passed unanimously.

Council Liaison Reports

Council on Administration

Margaret reported that budgets for the upcoming year have been prepared.

Council on Community Within

Nancy reported that the Performing Arts Sub-council is getting ready for the puppet show.

Spiritual Life

Marye Gail reported on the following Sub-councils.  The Adult Programs Sub-council has put in their budget for next year.  A Worship Associates group has been formed and is actively engaged in their work under the direction of Reverend Jamestone.  The Religious Education Sub-council is looking for 2 people to run the OWL program next year.  There is a discussion about reviving the Soulful Sundown youth worship service. 

Social Justice

Peg reported that the Welcoming Congregation group is planning an event in May in celebration of Mother’s Day.

Marye Gail will bring numbers of attendees at worship services to the next meeting for review.

Special Report on Childcare Proposal

Nancy Mandly and Marye Gail Harrison presented the Board with a written proposal related to childcare at the Meeting House.  A copy of the proposal is attached.  Margaret suggested adding a timeline to the proposal.  The need to consider putting a line item in the budget for the coming fiscal year was discussed.  At this time, the Board agreed that $3,000 will be included as an expense for the coming fiscal year to cover childcare expenses outside of the cost of nursery care during worship services.

A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to give authority to Nancy and Marye Gail to proceed with the work outlined in their proposal.

President’s Report

 Charles reported that the Stewardship campaign is going well with just over $305,000 in to date.  The Stewardship sub-council has set April 30th as the end date for the drive.  Plans are underway to plan for some type of group ritual during the worship service on May 13th that will announce the campaign success.  Charles suggested that would be a good time for public acknowledgment of thanks to the members of the Sub-council for their efforts. 

Charles reported that Fred Louis has resigned as Chair of the Council on Social Justice.  He recommends the appointment of Bill Laporte-Bryan as chair.  His term would encompass the remainder of this year and one additional year.    

Charles reported that the Task Force on Public Policy will be presenting an open forum this coming Sunday where the process used at the Quaker Meeting House with regard to taking stands on congregational issues will be discussed. 

Charles has talked with Hugh Schweitzer about the job of Council chair for the Council on Administration.  Charles is working with Hugh to identify potential members who would be candidates to fill the open position.

Charles reported he is going to the Clara Barton District Spring Conference this coming Saturday.

A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to appoint Bill Laporte-Bryan as Chair of the Council on Social Justice.

Charles will be speaking with potential candidates for the position of Council chair for the Council on Administration.

Proposed Employment Agreement for Organist

Reverend Jamestone provided a proposed employment agreement for the position of organist.  This was reviewed, along with changes suggested by Susan Huntington, as chair of the Human Resources Sub-council

The Board accepted the proposed employment agreement as presented.

Minister’s Report

Reverend Jamestone provided a written report prior to the meeting.  Discussion ensued around the role of the Council chairs – how they are currently functioning, how they might be better supported in the future and the role of the minister in support of these key leaders.  Further discussion centered around the topic of review of the governance structure and how it is functioning to date.  The need for a self-assessment of the Board was highlighted.  Additionally, Reverend Jamestone would like to have a transitional retreat meeting in June once the new Board members are identified.

Board members agreed to meet in May with the minister to do a Board self-assessment.  This is planned for May 22nd from 6-9 pm.  Peg and Sue will coordinate dinner.

The date for the transitional Board retreat meeting is scheduled for June 12th from 6-9 pm.