| Present | Dave C., Roy B., Baird B., Al G., Paula K., Marjorie L., Elaine W. and Kit K. |
The meeting started at 9:05 with the lighting of the Chalice by Kit and the thoughtful words of Al G.
The Agenda for the meeting was approved as well as the minutes of the Oct 13 board meeting.
Kit distributed a written “Minister’s Report.” She stressed a concern about the budgeted deficit of $9000.00 and wondered how this could be sustained. Dave noted that we had two years in which to solve the problem; during the next church year [ending June 2005] the church revenues from increased membership and special fund-raisers would have to bring the budget into balance.
Kit recommended that the Membership table change its name to “WELCOMING TABLE.”
Kit requested to be able to attend the next Membership meeting which was changed to Dec 1, 9:00 AM, at the B.’s..
Roy distributed the treasurer’s report which held no surprises. Al suggested that an additional column be added to show budgeted figures as well as actual. Ways of increasing income were discussed. It was suggested that the service’s auction be held again. It should be a fun event with perhaps new leadership if Sarah is feeling burnout, although the board was hoping that her organizational skills could once again be employed.
It was moved by Al and seconded by Marjorie that a Finance Task Force be formed with Three to Five members to create plans for meeting the financial needs of the congregation. There would be representation of the treasurer, membership and capital campaign committees with perhaps two others. Sarah? Bill? This passed unanimously.
The President gave his report. He has sent letters of thanks to Jim Lindus for allowing us to rent the chapel. He also wrote thanks to Sandy W. for her years of service as newsletter editor. It was suggested as appropriate to send a letter of thanks to Jeanette LeBlanc for her yeoman work on the CRE committee. She is resigning from these responsibilities and it is hoped that she will continue her association with UUCWI.
Baird has received the marketing/advertising packet from the UUA. He will research and report feasibility and costs of a campaign: North End Paper, South Whidbey Record and the Market Place, and will consult with Sarah!
Marjorie reported on Social Action. They are meeting weekly. It was pointed out that the process of becoming a Welcoming Congregation would best be served by an ad hoc committee dedicated to that purpose and reporting to the board.
Results of the Worship Committee facilitator’s meeting were described. An experiment to try having announcements at the end of the service was proposed.
Marjorie brought up the issue of whether potlucks after the service were working. After discussion, it was decided to offer the opportunity to go out to a restaurant after coffee instead. Marjorie will put an announcement in the newsletter.
The Capital Campaign Committee report was given by Elaine. There will be a survey done to help UUCWI clarify its public role and how it can respond to the community’s unmet needs. This will be used throughout our outreach and marketing efforts. She pointed out the need for having a congregational growth plan. The board discussed updating the existing Long Range Plan. Elaine will assess whether its format and content is appropriate to meet the need.
Paula gave the CRE report. In response to Jeanette LeBlanc’s resignation the search is on for a replacement. The CRE curriculum for the church year has been established because of a huge effort by Jeanette.
An abbreviated Membership report touched on the updating of the Church brochure. All were invited to proof and redo where necessary. John is doing the layout. Kit will work on the minister’s section and Al on the beginnings of unitariasm -- as well as universalism. Corrections and additions are to be sent to John and Baird.
The Canvass Committee presented a time line for the Stewardship Drive. Absent further suggestions it will be official.
Dave handed out a calendar plan, for discussion at the next meeting, and a post-service checklist that will be circulated to facility users. Members are encouraged to provide feedback.
Al volunteered to be a “watcher of the process” to keep board meetings on-topic and on-time.
Next Meeting: 8:30-10:30, December 15, Trinity. Note the new time!
Meeting adjourned at 10:30.