Mount Vernon Unitarian Church

Board of Trustees Meeting

Bill Clontz reported for the Facilities for the Future Task Force. The Task Force is ready to begin a series of informational meetings to familiarize members with its latest thinking. Information will also be posted on our web site. The Task Force has been working for some time now with the architect. It will be recommending an expansion of the Meeting House, construction of a handicapped-accessible entrance to Hollin Hall, modification of one Hollin Hall rest room to make it handicapped-accessible, an addition of 1500 square feet to the Carriage House, the provision of 19 more parking spaces on our hill, and a package of catch-up maintenance projects. The current projected cost of $1.5 million is slightly higher than the estimate offered at last year's annual meeting.

The Task Force will ask the congregation to endorse its recommendations at this year's annual meeting and also to approve the launching of a capital campaign, probably in the fall, to ascertain how much money we can raise towards these projects and how much we may need to borrow.

Peter Bloom articulated the vision of the Social Justice Coordinator Task Force to add a professional social justice organizer to our staff to develop and lead a comprehensive social justice program, integrated with other church programs.

Linda wondered whether the diversity of viewpoints in our congregation might make it difficult to create a comprehensive social justice program at MVUC. Walter said that the goals of such a program are not incompatible with diversity. Janice pointed out that many social justice activities are already happening at MVUC.. Anne observed that Peter had used both Social Justice Coordinator and Assistant Minister as job titles for the position he's proposing. She reminded us that the recruiting and salary implications for the position would differ significantly, depending upon whether one is talking about a coordinator or an assistant minister.

There was general consensus that, while the idea has merit, it may be unrealistic to expect our operating budget to be able to fund such a position.

Peter will present these ideas at our annual meeting.

Peter also proposed creating some kind of memorial for Saul Baran. There was general consensus that, while everyone likes the idea, all of its implications need to be carefully considered. Many members, Charter members and others, may be candidates for memorialization. Peter pointed out the educational value of creating some kind of a "Wall of Honor" dedicated to members especially significant in MVUC's history and development.

Janice gave an interesting and thoughtful report on her activities while wearing her Volunteer Coordinator hat, and also shared her thoughts on what other projects the person in this position might usefully start. As with so many things, there just aren't enough hours in the day!

Ron reported on his work writing down MVUC policies in a Policy Manual. He also distributed a sheet listing policy statements of other UU churches dealing with topics we haven't yet addressed. The Board will discuss our Policy Manual in more detail at our March meeting.

The Board appointed Bob Revere Church Historian.

The Board endorsed the recommendations of the Susan B. Anthony Committee for the expenditure of proceeds from Holiday Shop.

The Board approved for submission to the congregation at the annual meeting recommendations for bylaws revision from the Bylaws Review Committee.

Future planning:

February 25, 10:00 a.m. - Executive Committee meeting

March 4, 7:30 p.m. - Board meeting: RE policies, preliminary agenda for the annual meeting

Jim McGovern, Secretary