Meeting called to order at 6:34 P.M. by Bob Lechner
Members present
Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez Minister: Alicia Saenz
Guests Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer Devotion and Prayer led by Bob Lechner
Action Items
▪ January 21st 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
▪ Motion: Approve to the January 21st 2020 minutes. Motion by Diane W., second by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
▪ Bob L. opened up the election of church council roles
▪ Motion: Accept the Church Council roles for 2020 as described in the agenda.
Motion by Sherri C., second by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
▪ Dick Bolin researched the Property Tax of Equalization notice for the state of CA and spoke to a Representative. The information provided by Dick indicated that while St. Marks is generally considered a non-profit religious organization, there are two relatively small exceptions due to 1) Verizon Cell tower on the property which is a for-profit company, as well as 2) Lutheran Social Services, our tenant which is not considered a religious organization. So St. Marks must continue paying a small amount of property taxes for the present time.
However, pending further study by Dick Bolin, St. Marks may need to update/ modify the Articles of Incorporation in order to reduce exposure to property taxes. Dick will continue to explore options to minimize taxes with this CA Board.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the January Financial reports with Council.
Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Sherri C. and seconded by Sheri B. Unanimously approved.
Reports
Pastor Alicia
▪ Alicia asked for more publicity and assistance with the Easter Egg Hunt festivities to draw more children in.
▪ Bishop Andy was very impressed when he attended the Hispanic Service at his last visit on 2/16/20.
▪ Ash Wednesday services will be held 2/26/20. 5:30 p.m. English, 7:00 p.m. Spanish.
Property Committee
▪ Bob Lechner shared information regarding the work that will need to be done around St. Marks. There is a contractor willing to do the work, but due to the budget, the property committee will determine the necessary/ immediate jobs in priority order. One of the first areas needing attention is Jacobson Hall’s roof.
Leadership Development: Discussed the Introduction of Brene` Brown’s Dare to Lead
New Business:
▪ Lenten Potlucks begin 3/4/20 at 5:30pm each Wednesday evening in Lent through 4/1/20.
▪ Kitchen up-keep, cleaning being done, need to speak to other groups using it. Sheri will follow up with representatives of other congregations regarding monthly deep cleaning.
▪ Hall Rental fee being reconsidered. A team will be formed to review costs and appropriate rental rates for members and non-members.
▪ Musicians are booked through Easter, after that a Worship Team will need to review.
▪ Sheri Barker closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 8:31 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday March 23, 2020 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Submitted by Rachael Perez, Secretary