Notes from the 2022 Annual Financial Meeting
The Annual Financial Meeting of the FELC Congregation took place Sunday, January 30, having been announced in accordance with our Constitutional requirements.
It was determined that there was a quorum in attendance with 39 persons in the room and 5 on ZOOM connection, and the meeting was called to order by President John Johnstonbaugh, and opened with prayer by Interim Pr. Sarah Upham-Birdsall.
Treasurer Dave Hulin addressed the Profit & Loss Budget vs Actual January through December, 2021, then the Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2021, both of which were distributed to persons in actual attendance as they signed in.
Of note was that the 2021 budget, as accepted at the January 2021 Annual Budget Meeting, projected a $29,000 deficit.
At the end of the year, the actual deficit was closer to $18,000.
The $11,000 difference is an encouraging sign.
Therefore, with increased offerings and decreased expenditure adjustments the proposed 2022 Budget shows anticipated continuing giving even while submitting a negative figure proposal.
The proposed 2022 Budget includes a 7% increase in pay for our Director of Music who has not had a salary adjustment in his time here.
Objection arose in light of the 11:00 Worship Service providing their own music, and perceived reduction of other activity with COVID restrictions.
Discussion yielded broader understanding of circumstances, and even information that will impact the Call Committee’s direction.
The proposed Budget for 2022 notes some recent items for consideration previously not anticipated, which were addressed by active discussions.
Vicar Veronica Alvarez’s assignment to Faith has been changed at the recommendation of the Candidacy Committee in order to broaden her learning experience in a congregation that differs from our own.
Her last day with us is to be 03/15/22, rather than the original 05/31/22. (this has been further adjusted to be 03/06/22 since this meeting, Sec’y note insert)
This has implications to provide Spanish a speaking supply pastor for the 11:00 Service, when needed.
The roof received damage due to a storm in late Summer and has been assessed, awaiting approval by our insurance carrier. The repairs may well exceed our $5000 deductible. The deductible amount has been included in the proposed budget.
Noted by Treasurer Hulin that there had been no allowance for the Call Committee to provide visit expenses for Pastor Candidates.
The 2022 Budget was accepted by Motion by Al Konow, Seconded by Carly Chamberlain, and unanimous hand shown vote.
Respectfully Submitted, Gail Turner, Secretary
