Council Meeting Recap: May 2017

In an effort to improve our transparency and communication as your Council, we are sharing a recap of last week’s Council meeting. The full minutes will be available after they are approved, but here are some highlights in the meantime.

 

The May council meeting opened in God’s name with a scripture reading from Acts and reflections and discussion on the reading.

Then, we approved the April meeting minutes. We also approved the extension of an existing scholarship for a college student from the congregation, in part, to allow for graduation. The suggested policy for future scholarships is expected to be presented and voted upon at the June Council meeting.

Jay Kapp shared that the kitchen is essentially complete except for the center island and a few punch list items. The storage room is expected to be completed by early June. He extended thanks to Pastor Martha for helping to secure partitions for the third floor Sunday School space. We also discussed the financing and stages of the Capital Build projects.

• Stage 1 – Summer/fall 2017
  • Infrastructure improvements including:
    • electrical upgrades
    • flooring (including leveling)
    • fellowship hall sound system
    • second and third floor ceiling and lighting
• Stage 2 – After completion of Stage 1 and depending upon funds available
  • Bathrooms (5 bathrooms – men’s first floor, men’s & women’s on second/ & third floor)

We approved the lease of a new Canon copier and associated support contract.

Then, we reviewed and discussed a draft plan that the Stewardship Team is contemplating with respect to pursuing an aspirational budget.

Pastor Martha’s report highlighted her work with staff, team liaisons, team leads and confirmands over the last month. She also pointed out recent work done by Ray Dahl and Kurt Matthesius and offered her thanks to both of them.

Ben Dietrich gave the Treasurer’s report. He pointed out that LMC’s insurance with Church Mutual has been renewed at an 8.4% reduction in cost from last year. Council approved the expenditure of necessary funds by the Property Team for masonry repair to address immediate needs on the west wall of the building and the boiler room.

The Staff/Council Retreat, June 3rd 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, will be at the Lutheran School of Theology in Hyde Park.

Justin Shimko let us know that the Faith and Justice Team will have a mission statement to review in June.

Jeff Conway shared that the Communications Team is working on finalizing an update to the bulletin branding and discussed adding additional members to focus on social content.

We closed the meeting by offering thanks and praise in our ministry, and went out in God’s name, sharing the Peace.

Hopefully this gives you a little glimpse into our process and keeps you informed as to what we are talking about right now. As always, let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We are here to work for you!