Members Present: Sheri Barker, Mike Collins, Pastor Ron Hovick, Mark Lechner, Pat Milliken, David Perez
Members Absent: Mark Becerra, Juanita Celis, Alicia Saenz
Non-Voting Members Present: Brett Perkins, Diane Flint-Wages, Lee Wagenblast,
Council President Sheri Barker convened the meeting at 7:05 p.m. and called on Pastor Ron for meditation and prayer.
Motion by David Perez, seconded by Mike Collins: To approve the minutes of the October 17, 2012 meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
FINANICAL AND BUDGET REPORTS
Treasurer Diane Flint-Wages reported that income is on track to meet or exceed budget in all income categories. Total expenses will come in on budget. Building and Grounds are considerable below budget, but additional expenses are expected before the end of the year. As of October 31, there was $81,621 in reserve funds. Diane reviewed the designated funds. She noted that she expects the year to end on a positive note and suggested designating any excess funds for definite purposes. If Council chooses to do this, a decision should be made before the end of the year.
OLD BUSINESS
End of Year Preparations:
2013 Budget – Director of Operations Brett Perkins presented the first draft of the 2013 budget. Suggestions received at the various congregational meetings and from individuals were considered in drafting the budget. Brett reviewed each line item with Council and answered questions. The final 2013 budget will be presented to the Council for approval at the December meeting, and to the congregation at the January 27, 2013 Annual Congregational Meeting.
Youth Funding Proposal – Brett explained that the 2012 budget did not include any funds for the Youth Operating Budget. The Youth were expected to fund their expenses, outside of the Youth Director’s salary, through fundraisers, donations and other means. Council made that decision when Lee Wagenblast was hired as a full-time Youth Director.
Lee presented a draft Youth Group Operating Budget for 2013. He explained that a lot of his effort goes into fundraising rather than into ministering to the youth. He asked that Council consider re-establishing the Youth Group Operating Budget so that it reflects the needs of the ministry and provides the necessary tools to get the desired results in the ministry. Council discussed various means of supporting the proposed Youth Group Budget.
Healthcare – Sheri reminded Council that providing healthcare benefits for employees is an important consideration when developing the 2014 budget.
Other end of year preparation:
Elections – Brett will get an update from the Nominating Committee and he is looking for a treasurer.
St. Mark’s Council Meeting – November 15, 2012 – Page Two
NEW BUSINESS
Chester Estate Distribution – Sheri reported that the check from the Chester Estate has been received. Council discussed distribution of the funds in depth. Motion by Mark, seconded by Dave: To deposit the donation in the general fund account without designation with the exception to designate $16,500 in designated funds for the Capital Campaign and that final determination for the remainder will be made at the January Council meeting and announced at the January Annual Congregational Meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
Safety and Security – Sheri reported a theft from Melody’s car, and an increase in the number of homeless on the property and an increase in drug activity. Council made a formal request of the Property Committee to explore the cost of installing a real security camera system for the property. Pastor Ron asked that the Property Committee also determine the cost of putting in an inside security door to the office.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS REPORT
Brett reported that the Stewardship Committee is beginning its work.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sheri announced that a professional photographer from Chula Vista Photography will be at the church on Sunday to take photographs of church activities for the Website and marketing materials.
The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. and closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Patricia Milliken
Secretary