November 9, 2021
The following is a summary of topics discussed during the November 9 Vestry Meeting
The October Treasurer's report shows operating income for October and year-to-date exceeds operating expenses. This includes the Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) grant that was received earlier this year.
Don Hazen reported that Parish Hall renovation is nearing completion. He expects the construction "punch list" walkthrough in late November or early December. Don advised that furnishing for the gathering space and meeting room are being selected and purchased. There is a delay in delivery of a component of the audio/visual system and entry doors (temporary doors are in place). Don believes we will be able to occupy and use the parish hall and kitchen in January after we complete a thorough cleaning and relocate all the "stuff" that's been in storage while construction was underway.
Christine Kelly reported that the outdoor lighting project planning is on-going. The committee is engaged with the architect for initial design. They are also in contact with Dominion Energy to explore the feasibility and possible options to remove the single power pole in the middle of the parking lot green strip.
Our heating system remains a problem. We are waiting delivery and installation of a part, identified by the manufacturer, before we can attempt to get the system up and running. We are doing all we can to address this recurring issue and will advise the congregation as we know more.
Paul Johnson reported that the Finance Committee is developing low/medium/high 2022 operating budget scenarios to be presented at the next Vestry meeting. These options are informed by the outcome of our current Stewardship Campaign with pledge income being our primary source of funds for the operating budget.
Lee Gilmore provided an update on the Stewardship Campaign which is scheduled to end on November 22. We have received 71 pledges to date totaling $329,000. Fifty four pledges are increased over previous years and there are five new pledges. We have some heavy lifting to do over the next couple of weeks to secure remaining pledge commitments. Thank you to all who have pledged to date and please submit your pledge if you haven't already done so.
Reynold Schweickhardt reported on Vestry Nominating Committee progress to identify nominees for the next Vestry class. Nominees will be presented at the Parish Meeting in February 2022 for congregation vote. There are four positions to be filled by adult communicants in good standing.
Nick stated that he continues to be impressed with Saint Luke's and the great momentum he has witnessed over the last two-and-a-half months. Things are "fantastic" and we will slowly and deliberately determine our "new normal" as we get back into full facility operations once construction is complete. Nick is in dialogue with GAMMC, the Ghanian church community, and they anticipate a return in early December.
The Vestry approved fundraising requests from Boy Scout Troop 654 (annual Greens sale), Child Christmas Wish Program (Alice's Kids charity), and West Potomac Crew (wreath sale).
Thank you to the Pumpkin Patch Team! Gross sales receipts exceeded $38,000 and netted in excess of $15,000. This was a strong team effort, headed by Melissa Brunton, with participation and support from across the congregation. ORANGE returned to the greater Saint Luke's community.
Richard McFarland
Senior Warden