President LaRu Woody reminded all that the specially called Congregation Meeting on Sunday May 4 will include three potential votes to decide whether or not to: 1) extend a call to our Primary Candidate, the Reverend Katie Rode, 2) approve a compensation package recommended by our Finance Committee and approved by the Council, 3) amend the budget to accommodate the compensation package.
The council heard from property team members recommending needed improvements to the admin and pastor’s offices including two new HVAC units, window treatments, wiring and door replacements. The Council approved a bid to proceed with the recommended improvements.
Terry Porter, Team Lead of Support Ministry, reported on the status of our church insurance policy and his extensive efforts to secure adequate and affordable coverage in light of the changes in the industry.
The Council was updated on the necessity of bidding a fond farewell to a red oak tree in our courtyard. The tree was not healthy and removal was necessary. Plans are already underway for a beautiful replacement. Thanks to Terry Porter for that and for having a large tree limb removed that had fallen on the Scout Hut during a previous wind event. Our trees need continuous attention!
Charlie Boas, our TUF SPOC (Technology Upgrade for First English, Single Point of Contact) provided Council with examples of feedback he has received. Council agreed on the need to prioritize our needs and address them in an orderly fashion, with some concerns possibly better addressed by others.
Council voted to accept the recommendations of the Benevolence Committee to support Global Refuge, LUMIN, Casa Marianella, and Micah 6. Thanks to Ben Rode, Pam Williams, Teresa Ringness, and Claudia Barlow for their work on this.
The Council agreed to provide a meal for the teachers of the Child Development Center during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Efforts are underway to identify persons for an anniversary committee to ensure that recognition of FELC’s many years of faithful service are celebrated.
Ministry Team Reports were reviewed.
The next Council meeting will be Tuesday, May 27 at 7pm, so as not to conflict with Memorial Day.