The St. James’ Vestry met for a combined July/August meeting on Thursday, July 30, 2015. We start each of our meetings at 6:30, sharing a meal provided by a Vestry member. The business portion of the meeting begins at 7:00 with an opening prayer.
After review and approval of the June financial reports, we welcomed Sylvia Ma and Jim Cunningham, representing the Little Church Renovation Committee for their presentation of bids for the church’s structural repairs. After reviewing bids and covering issues regarding the process, and addressing questions about potential issues, the vestry voted to approve the proposal presented by Mark Schwab Contractors. The vestry then approved the expenditure of up to $52k, which covers the contractor, buttress fabrication, and funds to cover a possible cost overrun. The vestry would like to recognize the very detailed and focused volunteer work of the Little Church Renovation Committee. Their dedication over recent months and years has been a generous gift.
A new Donation Schedule, as part of our Facilities Use Agreement, was presented by Meg Amouroux. This Agreement is the document used for renting space on campus, for regularly scheduled and single-use events by various groups and individuals. The Donation Schedule was updated to make adjustments to pricing, simplify calculations and add additional instructions. After discussion and questions, with a minor edit, the new rate sheet was approved by the vestry and will be inserted into our Agreement.
Dave Nelsen presented the bid for the new Parish Hall flooring, After much research and discussion with local professionals, the proposal was to replace the flooring in a similar material to what we currently have. When installed with the proper subfloor and sealed and maintained properly, we have found the most durable product, best suited for the demands we put on that room’s flooring. Proposal was approved. Work to begin and be completed in September.
We then welcomed Deacon Ken Parris, who presented background and support information for the Charter for Compassion. The vestry was encouraged to visit their website, and consider signing the Charter as a vestry, and possibly as the church as well. We will review the Charter, and vote at the next vestry meeting in September.
The meeting concluded with discussion regarding Stewardship and Pledging, a conversation which will continue in the coming months.
Our meeting closed at 9:00, and we finished our evening together with Compline service in the Little Church.
~Meg Amouroux, Jr. Warden