Council Minutes
April 28, 2011
Members Present: Sheri Barker, Mark Becerra, Frank Carson, Mike Collins, Pastor Ron Hovick, Karl Larsen, Mark Lechner, Pat Milliken
Members Absent: Eddie Ochoterena, Ann-Marie Pering
Non-Voting Member Present: Brett Perkins
Non-Voting Member Absent: Diane Flint Wages
Guests: Karen Martin, Fred Curtis
Council President Karl Larsen convened the meeting at 6:35 p.m., and called on Pastor Ron for prayer.
Motion by Mark Lechner, seconded by Pastor Ron: To approve the minutes of the March 17, 2011 meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
President Larsen introduced Karen Martin, St. Mark’s Bookkeeper and Praise Band Leader, and Fred Curtis with Cub Scout Pack 580. Mr. Curtis presented Pastor Ron with the official charter recognizing St. Mark’s as the charter organization for Cub Scout Pack 580.
In Treasurer Diane Flint Wages absence, Karen Martin provided the financial report. March year-to-date income was $104,510; expenses exceed revenue by approximately $15,000. The annual insurance premium will be paid in April; however, expenses will level out as the year progresses.
Brett reported that due to logistical, physical space, and financial issues, the charter school would not be compatible with St. Mark’s. The Nursery Aide agenda item was tabled until after the implementation of the Strategic Plan. The blood drive scheduled for May 1 was cancelled at the request of the San Diego Blood Bank.
Pastor Ron reported that the interim pastor at College Lutheran had asked him if St. Mark’s would be willing to help with a $500 stipend while they make a decision about calling a new pastor or closing their doors. Discussion followed.
Motion by Frank, seconded by Mark Becerra: To direct St. Mark’s bookkeeper to write a monthly check for $500 to College Lutheran for no more than four months to support College Lutheran, and to consider that money as part of St. Mark’s benevolence to the Synod. Passed unanimously.
Pastor Ron reported on his discussions with individuals at the Synod and on the possibility of the Spanish language ministry at theLemon GroveLutheranChurchmoving to St. Mark’s. An in-depth discussion followed.
Motion by Mark Lechner, seconded by Pastor Ron: To support the idea of a Spanish ministry at St. Mark’s. Discussion continued. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Sheri, seconded by Mark Becerra: To take the Lemon Grove Hispanic Ministry proposal to the congregation at an informational congregational meeting in May. Passed unanimously.
Brett reported that an Al-Anon group has started meeting twice a week at St. Mark’s. They are paying rent, but have not signed a contract. Council approved the arrangement by consensus. He is working with the insurance company for a Directors, Officers and Trustees insurance rider.
Karl called attention to a youth event taking place April 29 and 30 and that the Personnel Committee will meet to discuss employee evaluations.
Karl nominated Barbara Atwood, Chair; Tom Larsen; and Nancy Dreesen to serve on the Audit Committee.
Motion by Sheri, seconded by Mark Becerra: To approve the Audit Committee slate as presented. Passed unanimously.
Sheri reported that the Strategic Plan Action Planning Teams would meet on Sunday, May 15.
Motion at 9:10 p.m. by Mark Becerra, seconded by Frank: To adjourn. The meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Patricia Milliken
Secretary