President’s Report:

Julia Raddatz reported:

• Julia recognized and thanked the Board for participating in a meaningful and enlightening Board Retreat on Saturday, October 8, 2011 – 9:00AM-3:30PM.

• The Strategic Planning Committee is still working with Architect Tom Sturr, to get numerical values to make changes to the present facility with regard to handicap accessible bath room, kitchen space, sanctuary space, and nursery space. With that information in place, short-term and long-term needs can be examined.

• Julia will be contacting UUA consultant, Dave Rickard, to meet with the Board. Julia ex-pressed the need to work on communicating with the congregation frequently and accurately. We need to practice "spiritual democracy" and have a process that will address that.

Minster’s Report:

Rev. Cathy Harrington reported:

• A written account of the Minister‘s weekly time in service to the Church was given to the Board by Rev. Harrington.

• The Buddhists, lead by Rev. John Wolff, will no longer be meeting at People‘s Church. However, we continue our friendship and cooperation with them.

• Artist, Rick Namors, has offered an original painting to People‘s Church to be used as a permanent display. The offer is appreciated and appropriate space is being considered.

• Webinars are being offered by the UUA Mid-America District that provides a way to connect UU Churches on various issues.

• The "Compassion" and "New UU" classes are going well.

• Rev. Harrington is providing a "healing service" to the members of COVE at our Church on Tuesday evenings. She has spoken to COVE representatives about offering volunteer training. This is part of our Justice Ministry. COVE has agreed to pay for carpet cleaning in our sanctuary twice a year.

Treasurer’s Report:

Ed Dennison reported that he and Church Bookkeeper, Marilyn Steiner, are implementing the "Quick Books Online" program.

Committee on Ministry:

COM Chairperson, Jim Martin, discussed his role and purpose to the Minister, Board, and Congre-gation of People‘s Church.

Congregational Care Committee:

Rev. Harrington reported that the CCC‘ s work may be enhanced by use of "Facebook". Ren Willis is investigating how "Facebook" could be used by the CCC in a confidential and safe manner to connect congregants.

Action Items

There was a discussion of more frequent "Split-the Plate" opportunities, including UUA Social Justice Network and local community needs organizations.

Discussion

The following items were discussed:

• Matching grants that may be available for more community involvement.

• Consideration of a ministerial intern.

• The need for consistent church cleanliness and an occasional deep-cleaning.

• Age requirements for child care and children‘s RE. Child care needs to be provided for special events at our Church. This may be an area for writing a "Chalice Lighter‘s" grant.

• Ed Dennison recognized and thanked Josh Swenson for his many hours devoted to repairs in the Church building, especially replacement of the Nursery window. The Board agreed and is most grateful for all of Josh‘s contributions!

Respectfully,
Susan Scarfino
Board Secretary