Meeting called to order at 6:11 P.M. by Sheri Barker
Members present
Lay Leadership: Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez
Ministers: Pastor Dan Cole and Pastor Alicia Saenz
Absent: Freddie Lacarra, Michael Marquez
Guests
Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer
Devotion and Prayer led by Pastor Alicia
Action Items
June 22, 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
Motion: Approve to the June 22, 2020 minutes. Motion by Diane W.., second by Bob L. Unanimously approved.
Tower Point Information:
Submitted requested documents including (RFI) Request for Information.
7/6/20 signed Letter of Intent Addendum 1 with Tower Point
7/15/20 Tower Point and Dick Bolin Site Inspection
7/17/20 Signed and Submitted Letter to Verizon for an Assignment of Lease
delivery date for Verizon assignment letter 7/22/20.
Next steps:
Awaiting the next Draft of Easement Agreement for Review and Further discussion.
Close of Transaction: Check from Tower Point paid directly to St. Mark’s Mortgage Company, Mission Investment Fund, to pay off Church Mortgage.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the April Financial reports with Council.
Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Sheri B. and seconded by Alicia. Unanimously approved.
Reports:
Pastor Dan
Pastor Dan is continuing devotions, prayers, phone calls, and sermons
Pastor Alicia
Pastor Alicia is planning worship services
Keep connections with people
Planning additional St. Mark’s property improvement projects – removing shrubs, etc.
Checking on people to make sure they have enough food
Property Committee
Bob L. spoke to a company that installs solar panels. St. Mark’s would need approximately 75 Panels which would cost $79,000. The church would own, not lease these 75 panels at $443.00 per month until they are paid off. We currently pay approximately $800/month for electricity due to refrigerators and freezers in Project Hand and kitchen. If we apply the monthly electricity payment to the purchase of solar panels, we would be able to pay off the panels in 6-10 years. The company offers a deferred 16-month payment plan. Diane W. suggested that we look at other solar companies, obtain written proposals with warranties, submit to the Property Committee, then the Council can review it all before making any decisions.
Leadership Development:
Read the Roller Coaster of Change
⁃ Focus on the Power of Prayer – Trust in God – Go to the Need
⁃ Next steps for Council: Follow up with everyone – how can we better care for our members?
What have we learned during these past two months?
We are anxious to get back to church
We ARE the church – Christ to each other
Our connection with the Holy Spirit
Phone calls have increased member connection and caring
New Business:
Bookkeeping:
Bookkeeper resignation given – 2-week notice- by the 2nd week in August, the bookkeeper will no longer be at St. Marks. Reviewing alternate sources of Bookkeeping. Jim Biddle’s significant other, Gertrude Stein has a successful bookkeeping office in Chula Vista and they are reviewing St. Marks current accounting information. We will get an estimate of what our monthly Accounting fees would be for Gertrude’s office to take over St. Mark’s bookkeeping service offsite. Possibly come by once a week to pick up mail and bills at St. Marks.
Other Ministry Uses of Property
Lee Wagenblast would like to use St. Mark’s Kitchen each Monday night with a small group to prepare Meals for the Homeless. Lee will take the prepared meals to National City for distribution.
The council suggested that clear expectations be set of proper use of all kitchen supplies, and cleaning of the kitchen after each use. The council also suggested that Lee W. also supply St. Mark’s with insurance. Sheri will follow up with Lee to ensure that expectations are clear.
Lee Wagenblast also has a Diaper Ministry and needs a room to store all the Diaper donations. He would like to use one of our rooms for this. The Council believes the best room for this would be the Sunday School Office.
Motion: Approve the Use of St. Mark’s Kitchen to Lee Wagonblast and his group. Motion by Bob L. and seconded by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
Maintenance
Mice problem
Replace broken toilet- Member in Spanish ministry can replace the toilet- without a service fee.
Compressor on Refrigerator is going out in the Kitchen. Pastor Alicia is asking a member of the Spanish ministry to check it out.
Sheri Barker closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday Aug 24, 2020 6:00 – 8:00 PM via Zoom
CUANDO: Hoy hasta el domingo 5 de julio a las 11:59 p.m.
QUÉ: ¿Debería St. Mark vender el contrato de arrendamiento de la torre de telefonía celular de Verizon a TOWERPOINT por un plazo de 99 años a cambio de una liquidación en efectivo de $ 375,000? Elija: SÍ o NOhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSerLbQPOvntMVI1xPOKEbVfm_sRiKJwql_h_7rKWnBl_kDMQg/viewform?embedded=true
Congregación de San Marcos discusión para:
Información de la propuesta de TowerPoint para la adquisición del contrato de arrendamiento de Verizon
Historia y estado actual: Desde 2000 St. Marks ha proporcionado una contrato con Verizon para operar una torre de telecomunicaciones (así como un generador y equipo relacionado) en las instalaciones de nuestra Iglesia.
• La cantidad de renta ha aumentado durante esos años. El monto actual ha sido de $ 1,705 por mes ($ 20,460 anualmente) y está previsto que aumente este verano a $ 1,855 por mes ($22,260 anualmente).
• Towerpoint (una de las empresas de adquisición de torres más grandes de los EE. UU), ha presentado una oferta para adquirir el contrato de arrendamiento de Verizon asociado con este contrato. Los términos y condiciones principales se establecen en la siguiente sección:
Términos y condiciones importantes a tener en cuenta:
1. Towerpoint ofrece un pago global de $ 375,000.
* La cantidad para el pago de una suma global se basa en gran parte en los ingresos actuales y anticipados en el futuro previsible.
2. La duración de este acuerdo sería de 99 años. También podría ser para:
* Plazo de 50 años (pago de $ 350,000) o
* Plazo de 30 años (pago de $ 300,000)
3. Sin embargo, de manera realista, la vida útil de este arreglo será más corta. Algunos analistas sugieren más cerca de 8-12 años (estimación); aunque podría ser más corto. Proyección: más alla de ese período de tiempo, la arquitectura de telecomunicaciones posiblemente cambiará con la disposición actual que se vuelve obsoleta. Esto podría resultar en “desmantelamiento” del contrato de arrendamiento de Verizon y la eliminación de todo el equipo de la propiedad de San Marcos.
4. Independientemente de la duración útil de este contrato de arrendamiento (período corto o plazo más largo), St. Mark’s mantiene el monto total pagado por TowerPoint. Asumen todo el riesgo financiero de que la torre de antena se vuelva anticuada / desactualizada en caso de que cambie la tecnología de telecomunicaciones / el paisaje.
5. Además del pago de la suma global, St. Marks recibiría el 60% de cualquier ingreso adicional generado por TowerPoint con otras compañías de telecomunicaciones que puedan comercializar (TowerPoint retendría el 40% restante).
6. En caso de que TowerPoint comercialice empresas de telecomunicaciones adicionales (por ejemplo, ATT, T-Mobile, et.al) TowerPoint tiene derecho a una servidumbre adicional de 250 pies cuadrados (máximo) en la propiedad de la Iglesia adyacente al generador Verizon existente y la antena de árbol ( monotree).
* Si esto fuera necesario, St. Mark’s requeriría que se construyera un nuevo generador o equipo considerado en la ladera adyacente al equipo actual de Verizon (no es un espacio útil.)
* Esto no invadiría el estacionamiento para discapacitados o el área del cubo de basura en el nivel de estacionamiento superior; ni en los espacios de estacionamiento en el segundo nivel de estacionamiento.
* St. Marks tendría una autoridad significativa para determinar si estos arreglos adicionales serían aceptables (autorización de aprobación / veto).
*Es poco probable que este arrendamiento adicional implique un segundo árbol de antenas (monotree).
7. St. Mark’s tiene la máxima flexibilidad y discreción para contratar independientemente con otra compañía de telecomunicaciones para construir y arrendar una torre de telecomunicaciones adicional.
* Con este acuerdo de servicio adicional, St. Marks recibiría el 100% de los ingresos.
* Con cualquier acuerdo adicional de este tipo, esto podría permanecer como un flujo de ingresos mensual o también podría venderse en última instancia con un pago a tanto alzado.
8. Towerpoint es una compañía altamente ética y solvente y una de las compañías más grandes en los Estados Unidos por adquirir arrendamientos de torres.
* Más de 4,000 adquisiciones de arrendamiento de este tipo con más de $ 1 mil millones en pagos.
* Es un “Comprador final” y no una empresa intermediaria.
* Han investigado su empresa y son muy respetados con una excelente reputación de ser honestos y éticos. Tratar con muchas iglesias / entidades basadas en la fe.
9. No habrá responsabilidad fiscal asociada con esta transacción de TowerPoint.
*Al utilizar los ingresos para el fondo general de San Marcos (por ejemplo, el fondo de jubilación hipotecaria y reparación de capital) no habrá responsabilidad fiscal federal ni estatal.
Próximos pasos si St. Marks está interesado en lograr esto:
• Requeriría la aprobación del Consejo y la Congregación.
• Recibir y revisar su Carta de Intención (LOI). Esta sería una “Opción” y como tal: St. Marks no pudo entablar negociaciones con otras compañías de adquisición de arrendamiento. Además, los términos de la adquisición son confidenciales y no se divulgan a otros sin su consentimiento por escrito. TowerPoint esperaría que procedamos con este acuerdo de buena fe.
• Dick Bolin podría aumentar su LOI mediante una adición e insertar términos y condiciones importantes para St. Marks.
• La LOI firmada permitiría a TowerPoint obtener:
* Copias de los contratos de arrendamiento y enmiendas de Verizon.
* Comprobante de pagos de alquiler.
* Acceso a la información hipotecaria existente.
* Acceso a algunos documentos básicos de la organización.
* TowerPoint esperaría que St. Marks consuma este acuerdo con el acuerdo final e integral
para permitir que Towerpoint adquiera el contrato de arrendamiento de St. Marks Verizon.
• Al firmar la Carta de Intención, trabajaría en finalizar todos los detalles en el Acuerdo de Adquisición y Servicio de Arrendamiento final. Dick Bolin se ha ofrecido voluntario para revisar el acuerdo final de la Sección 14 y negociar y “poner en línea roja” cualquier disposición adicional de “letra pequeña” que deba modificarse o eliminarse para garantizar que este acuerdo sea justo para St. Marks. 10. La transacción se completará aproximadamente 90 días después de la aprobación de la Congregación.
Preguntas y respuestas sobre la propuesta de TowerPoint
31 de mayo de 2020 Zoom Meeting – 17 personas presentes.
Resultados de la encuesta al final de la reunión:
A. ¿Parece que esta propuesta podría ser un buen negocio para San Marcos?
15 – SÍ (8 hogares) 2 – Necesita más información
B. Esta pregunta es simplemente una PRUEBA para ver el nivel de consenso que existe entre la
congregacion en este momento. NO es un voto congregacional formal. En este momento,
¿votaría para aprobar esta propuesta si fuera a un voto congregacional?
15 – SÍ (8 hogares) 2 – Necesita más información
Preguntas:
1. ¿Cuánto dura el arrendamiento de Verizon?
a. Originalmente, un contrato de arrendamiento de 5 años, sin embargo, se puede renovar automáticamente por hasta cuatro períodos adicionales de 5 años al proporcionar a St Marks una notificación de renovación de 90 días por adelantado antes de la fecha de finalización del plazo del arrendamiento. Después del total de cinco términos de 5 años, esto puede continuar en renovaciones de 1 año a menos que St Marks proporcione un aviso por escrito 90 días antes de la fecha del plazo.
b. Sin embargo, Verizon puede cancelar en cualquier momento esencialmente con un aviso de 30 días (en realidad de inmediato). Este acuerdo en el que Verizon puede cancelar esencialmente de inmediato, mientras que St Marks no puede, no es una condición favorable para St Marks.
c. El alquiler mensual se basa en el Índice de precios al consumidor. El contrato de arrendamiento original era de $ 1,000 / mes. 20 años después, ahora cuesta $ 1,705 / mes.
2. ¿Qué responsabilidad tiene San Marcos si la torre se derrumba, causa cáncer o cualquier otro resultado catastrófico?
a. Nuestro abogado, Dick Bolin, ha indicado una responsabilidad extremadamente mínima. Las tres entidades tendrían un seguro de responsabilidad civil general. Verizon sería el principal responsable y TowerPoint sería el responsable secundario. St Marks sería un tercero responsable (terciario) y también retendría un seguro de responsabilidad civil como lo haría cualquier otro propietario de la tierra. Para todas las consideraciones y propósitos prácticos, St. Marks estaría a salvo a este respecto. También como una cuestión práctica, incluso con una ocurrencia tan rara, cualquier litigio (por ejemplo, acción de clase) se centraría en los acusados de “bolsillo más profundo” (Verizon primero y más adelante y luego TowerPoint). Mientras que cualquier entidad o individuo puede ser teóricamente sujeto a una demanda, la posibilidad de tales consecuencias adversas para St. Marks sería extremadamente improbable.
3. ¿Cuál es el plan comercial de TowerPoint para subarrendar la torre?
a. Hasta ahora, Towerpoint ha hablado en generalidades. Se esforzarán por hacer esto en los próximos años. Sin embargo, sus planes son algo vagos.
b. Dick presionará un poco para obtener el mejor y el peor de los casos de potencial de ingresos futuros para St. Mark’s de subarrendamientos.
4. ¿Qué se haría con los ingresos de la venta de la Torre?
a. Pague la hipoteca actual de $ 285,185 en el edificio, ahorrando a la congregación el pago de hipoteca de $ 4,339 / mes. Este préstamo vence el 1 de mayo de 2026. Al pagar el préstamo ahora, ahorraría aproximadamente $ 34,000 en intereses a San Marcos.
b. El Consejo trabajará en la creación de un plan más detallado para el saldo de los ingresos, que se presentará antes de la Votación Congregacional del 28 de junio. En este momento, implicará reservar dinero para repavimentar el estacionamiento y cualquier otro fondo importante no financiado. Mejoras de capital.
5. ¿Dick Bolin es abogado?
a. Dick Bolin es abogado y se graduó de la Univ. de la Facultad de Derecho de San Diego (USD) en 1978. Su experiencia es Derecho Corporativo, y supervisó a numerosos abogados de Mutual of Omaha durante su carrera.
b. Dick es el hijo de Myrna Bolin y actualmente está retirado. ¡Se ofrece como voluntario para ayudar a San Marcos en la investigación de varias inquietudes legales y tenemos la bendición de tenerlo en nuestra familia de San Marcos!
6. ¿Podemos cobrar el alquiler durante los 90 días que lleva cerrar la venta del contrato de arrendamiento?
a. Esencialmente si. Sin embargo, la oferta actual es más complicada en términos y plazos. Indica que St. Marks realmente podría mantener las rentas por incluso dos meses después del cierre, pero reducir (prorratear) el precio de compra basado en estos dos meses de renta anticipada. Esto se describe típicamente como un período de redireccionamiento. TowerPoint prefiere usar el enfoque de “período de redireccionamiento” debido al efecto de retraso (por ejemplo, a St Marks todavía se le enviarían los cheques de alquiler pagaderos a St. Marks durante un par de meses después del cierre). Dado que el resultado financiero neto es el mismo, probablemente deberíamos seguir este enfoque que funciona mejor para TowerPoint. Solo tendríamos que asegurarnos de que también haya una prorrateo para este cierre en cualquier momento que no sea el primero del mes.
7. Si aceptamos vender el contrato de arrendamiento de Verizon a TowerPoint, ¿qué sucederá si la congregación vende la propiedad en algún momento en el futuro?
a. El arrendamiento de Verizon y la propiedad de TowerPoint de ese arrendamiento estarán en un pacto que se ejecutará con el terreno en el momento de la venta.
8. ¿Por qué TowerPoint estaría interesado en un acuerdo de 99 años (para siempre)?
a. Originalmente, creemos que TowerPoint está más interesado en ganar dinero de subarrendamientos en la torre durante los próximos 8-12 años para recuperar el costo de comprar el arrendamiento y generar ingresos adicionales para TowerPoint (lo que significa el 60% de cualquiera de esos ingresos iría a San Marcos)
b. Un contrato de arrendamiento de 99 años sería una forma para que TowerPoint garantice su control sobre uno de los puntos más altos del oeste de Chula Vista, una ubicación crítica para la comunicación inalámbrica futura u otros usos relacionados a medida que la tecnología cambia.
9. Suponiendo que TowerPoint comercializara una segunda compañía de telecomunicaciones (y luego Verizon rescindió el contrato de arrendamiento de la propiedad de St Mark o cerró el negocio con el acuerdo preexistente): ¿recibiría St Marks la participación del 60% para el segundo acuerdo o ¿Podría esto reducirse?
a. Obtendríamos nuestro 60% nuevamente solo después de que TowerPoint haya recuperado el mínimo contrato de arrendamiento mensual. Esto se detalla en los documentos de venta por contrato en la Sección 5 (“Alquiler programado mínimo”). Por lo general, esta situación con un ingreso reducido podría continuar durante cinco (5) años, momento en el cual St. Marks podría rescindir unilateralmente este contrato de arrendamiento.
Acuerdo de adquisición. Sin embargo, Dick está en el proceso de negociación y reducción de
período máximo de tres (3) años y después de lo cual, St Marks podría terminar este
acuerdo (y aún retener el pago de la suma global al cierre).
10. ¿Cuál será la potencia de salida para la torre?
Verizon opera su espectro típicamente dentro de estas dos bandas de RF.
CDMA = 800 MHz (mega hertz) y PCS = 1900 MHz
¿Es probable que esté en niveles nocivos? La respuesta corta es no. Un extracto del artículo a continuación es:
“La exposición pública a las ondas de radio de las antenas de las torres de telefonía celular es leve por varias razones.
Los niveles de potencia son relativamente bajos, las antenas están montadas muy por encima del nivel del suelo, y las señales se transmiten de manera intermitente, en lugar de estar constantemente “. También, “Emisiones de radiofrecuencia de antenas utilizadas para celulares y PCS [personal servicio de comunicaciones] las transmisiones dan como resultado niveles de exposición en el terreno que son típicamente miles de veces por debajo de los límites de seguridad “. Consulte el artículo completo a continuación para obtener más información.
11. ¿Qué gastos tendrá que asumir San Marcos en la venta del contrato de arrendamiento?
a. St Marks pagaría sus propios honorarios legales (no debería ser ninguno con esta transacción).
Las marcas pagarían el impuesto de transferencia / sello y las tarifas de registro. También cualquier impuesto sobre la renta de la transacción (no debe ser ninguna como organización exenta de impuestos y se debe usar según lo previsto).
b. TowerPoint pagaría sus gastos legales. También costos de cierre estándar, título
póliza de seguro y costos de diligencia debida (por ejemplo, verificar la precisión de los registros proporcionados a ellos). St Marks negociaría para insertar una cláusula que indique cualquier otro imprevisto Los gastos de transacción correrán a cargo de TowerPoint.
Congregational Vote THIS WEEK on the TOWERPOINT Proposal
WHEN: through Sunday, July 5 at 11:59 PM
WHAT: Should St. Mark’s sell the lease on the Verizon cell tower to TOWERPOINT for a term of 99-years in return for a cash settlement of $375,000? Choose: YES or NO
Meeting called to order at 10:00am by President Sheri Barker
Members present: Sheri Barker, Bob Lechner,Diane Wages, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez, Pastor Alicia
Absent: Pastor Dan, Freddie Lacarra, Michael Marquez
Action Items
Decision on Term of Lease Sale & Affirm Process for Congregational Vote. Whether Council should consider 30 year, 50 year, or 99 year lease with Tower Point. Most members were supporting the 99 year term, which would pay us $375,000.00.
New information: After 3 years, if Verizon vacates the property and TowerPoint cannot replace them, St. Mark’s can unilaterally terminate the easement agreement.
SINGLE ITEM AGENDA: TOWERPOINT PROPOSAL and PREPARATION FOR CONGREGATIONAL VOTE
• Motion to Recommend that the congregation sell Verizon Lease to TowerPoint for a term of _____ years, in return for a lump sum payment of $_________________.
• Key Question: What is the term that is most likely to get a YES vote from the majority of the congregation?
• We will hold the vote this next week–sending out the ballot link via newsletter, Facebook and on the website starting tomorrow at 6:00 PM. We will mail ballots to the 23 members who receive snail-mailed bulletins once a month and call to follow up. All votes will be due by next Sunday, July 5, at 1:00 PM. That will allow us to advise Dick on the direction of the congregation regarding finalizing negotiations with TowerPoint.
Motion was made (Sheri B.), seconded (Bob L.), and unanimously approved to recommend the 99 year term to sell the Verizon lease to Tower Point. This motion will be forwarded to the congregation for a congregational vote, June 28 – July 6. Members will vote online, mail in ballot or call in to the church office.
Meeting adjourned at 10:47 AM
Next Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 27th (Zoom)
Meeting called to order at 6:08 P.M. by President Sheri Barker
Members present: Sheri Barker, Bob Lechner,Diane Wages, Michael Marquez, Pastor Alicia Saenz, Pastor Dan Cole, and Sherri Coughlin
Absent: Rachael Perez, Freddie Lacarra
Opening Prayer
Devotion and Prayer led by Bob Lechner
Action Items
May Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members. One correction was made. Changed the word “purse” to “pursue” under “Motion: Approve Dick Bolin to Purse Tower Point Letter of Intent”.
Motion was made (Michael M)) and seconded (Diane W.) to approve the May 18, 2020 minutes as corrected and unanimously approved.
Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the May Financial reports with Council.
Due to a number of errors in the May Financial reports, Diane requested time to correct the errors and resubmit the reports for approval at the next Council meeting.
Diane reviewed the Profit & Loss statement with Council and pointed out that our total Income is very close to budgeted amount. We should be at 50% at the end of June. She noted that this is very commendable under current circumstances.
Decision on Term of Lease Sale & Affirm Process for Congregational Vote.
Lengthy discussion held on whether Council should consider 30-year, 50 year, or 99-year lease with Tower Point. Most members were supporting the 99-year term, which would pay us $375,000.00. Diane shared her analysis which supported the 50-year term, giving us $350,000.00. She pointed out the percentage differences between 30-year versus 50 year (16% increase) and 50 year vs. 99 years (only 7%).
Sheri then informed Council that she has been recently contacted by two other companies that are interested in purchasing our Lease. She has referred one of the requests to Dick Bolin for review and follow up. She is waiting to hear back from the second company for a written request.
Discussion was then held on whether or not to postpone this Sunday’s Congregational vote on accepting Tower Point’s proposal. It was concluded and agreed that we should postpone the vote to allow us the time to investigate the additional offers, and be able to present the best possible deal for our church to the Congregation.
SMC commitment for Mission Support.
Sheri Barker presented a document from the Synod which was provided to make a commitment for the next twelve months. We have already make a 25% increase from 2019 ($15,000) to 2020 ($20.000). Diane reported that we have paid $5,000.00 for the first quarter and requested that our second payment is due this month.
Motion was made (Diane W.) and seconded (Michael M.) to make the second payment of $5,000 to the Synod prior to June 30th and unanimously approved.
Re-opening St. Mark’s for in-person worship.
Pastor Dan is suggesting that we possibly re-open in August and hold services outside in the courtyard, at least for a couple of months.
On-line services will continue.
Aurundaum plans to begin in-person worship on July 5th.
Pastor Alicia is considering re-opening Spanish Services on July 19th.
Discussion Items
Updates:
Roofing & Repair of Upper Campus buildings project is completed.
Dennis C. & Bob B. will be re-staining the pews in the sanctuary this week.
Funding has been received for the Stimulus Payroll Protection Plan application.
Synod grant for COVID 19 support in the amount of $1,000.00 has been received and a Go Pro camera was purchased.
Reports
Pastor Dan-
Preaching, busy delivering items to those in need.
Met with the Worship Committee
Making phone calls to members
Pastor Alicia-
Preaching, planning services, calling members.
Personnel Committee-
The committee met on Saturday and made the following decisions:
It was agreed to increase Maryury’s hours from 20 hours to 24 hours per week. She was sent a letter informing her of the increase and giving her options to create a new work schedule
It was also agreed to expand Jason’s independent contractor role. He also received a letter confirming his expanded roles and the decision to maintain the additional $75 per week he has been receiving to provide increased leadership in worship and music design.
Bob Lechner closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 7:55 P.M.
Next Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 27th (Zoom)
Meeting called to order at 6:06 P.M. by Sheri Barker via ZOOM meeting
Members present
Lay Leadership: Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez
Ministers: Pastor Dan Cole and Pastor Alicia Saenz
Absent: Freddie Fran Lacarra, Michael Marquez
Guests
Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer
Devotion and Prayer led by Sheri Barker
Action Items
• April 27, 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
•Motion: Approve to the April 27, 2020 minutes. Motion by Sherri C., second by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
• Tower Point Purchase of the Verizon Cell Tower Contract Information is being gathered and reviewed by Dick Bolin. This is for the current Verizon tower and an additional space of 250 sq. feet. The next step is to get a Letter of Intent from Tower Point. Once that is received, Dick will insert an addendum with a Non-Binding Agreement. Tower Point is offering a lump sum payment of $375,000 for a 99-year term lease, or a 50-year term lease for $350,000 payment, or 30-year term lease for $300,000 payment. In addition, St. Mark’s receives 60% of any lease income when Tower Point Sub-leases space of our tower. Dick will review any Tax implications, and research Previous Contracts with other companies to gather data. There will be an Informational Zoom meeting with the Congregation on May 31, June 4 and 14, 2020. A final opportunity to ask questions will be available both via Zoom and in person at church on Sunday, June 28, 4:00 – 5:00 PM. The congregation will vote Yes or No to selling the lease on June 28 or 29. Members will be offered a method to vote online during the week of June 23 – June 28. Final paper ballots are due to the office by Monday, June 29 by 1:00 PM.
Next steps:
Move forward with Discussion
Research additional Information about TowerPoint
Review Tax Liabilities
Keep Congregation informed
All Zoom meetings with the Congregation will be recorded and available online.
Congregation meeting and vote on Sunday, June 28. If the congregation votes to approve the sale of the Verizon lease to TowerPoint, Attorney Dick Bolin will actively negotiate the Letter of Intent and the Lease Purchase Agreement on behalf of St. Mark’s.
Motion: Approve Dick Bolin to Pursue Tower Point Letter of Intent, motion by Diane W. , second by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
▪ CA Board of Equalization: Dick Bolin is in contact with the State of CA. regarding the California Board of Equalization (CBE) notices and has been speaking to different representatives. Dick suggests that St. Marks re-write the Articles of Incorporation based on the recommendation of the CBE representatives.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the April Financial reports with Council.
Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Sherri C. and seconded by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
Contract with A & M Rehab for Roofing Project gutters need to be replaced. Sheri B. recommends proceeding with this project, there is money set aside to pay for this.
Motion: Approve A & M to replace the Gutters. Motion by Diane W. and Second by Bob L. Unanimously approved.
Approve The Re-hire of Angelina and Eduardo Garcia for Nursery Staff. Motion by Bob L. And Second by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
Reports:
Pastor Dan
Pastor Dan is continuing devotions, prayers, phone calls, and sermons
Music Committee Planning
Reinstate Worship Committee
Pastor Alicia
Pastor Alicia is planning a worship service for the Spanish service “Day of the Dead Celebration.”
Property Committee
Refining Policies
Document Job descriptions, put packet together for Diane Nissen
Leadership Development: Discussion of 17 Efficiency Management Principles during This Crisis: Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Reverend Paul Chappell.
⁃ Focus on the Power of Prayer – Trust in God – Go to the Need
⁃ Next steps for Council: Follow up with everyone – how can we better care for our members?
What have we learned during these past two months?
We are anxious to get back to church
We ARE the church – Christ to each other
Our connection with the Holy Spirit
Phone calls have increased member connection and caring
New Business:
ELCA Grant of $1,000 to off-set the cost of the GO-PRO camera, Tripod.
Project Hand donation from Paseo Del Rey Church
Masks Ministry donations have been made for purchasing additional fabric and supplies.
Motion: To approve grant for $1,000. Motion made by Bob L. and second by Sherri C.
Pending Opening of the Nursery (unlikely before Fall): Clean and organize the Nursery. Clean and replace toys for the Nursery.
Sheri Barker closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 8:34 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday June 22, 2020 6:00 – 8:00 PM via Zoom
Meeting called to order at 6:06 P.M. by Sheri Barker
Members present
Lay Leadership: Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez
Ministers: Pastor Dan Cole and Pastor Alicia Saenz
Absent: Freddie Fran Lacarra, Michael Marquez
Guests
Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer
Devotion and Prayer led by Sheri Barker
Action Items
• March 23, 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
• Motion: Approve to the March 23, 2020 minutes. Motion by Sheri B., second by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
Approve Diane Wages and Sherri Coughlin as continued authorized signers on bank accounts. And add Sheridan Barker as an authorized signer. Unanimously approved.
• Tower Point Information is being gathered and reviewed by Dick Bolin. The council will be updated as Dick learns more. Dick has discovered that Verizon has not been paying $180.00 each month to St. Marks for the past 3+ years.
Motion: Approve Dick Bolin to request a Retroactive amount of $180.00 per month for the past 3+ years from Verizon, motion by Bob L. , second by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
▪ Dick Bolin is in contact with the State of CA. regarding the California Board of Equalization (CBE) notices and has been speaking to different representatives. Dick suggests that St. Marks re-write the Articles of Incorporation based on the recommendation of the CBE representatives.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the March Financial reports with Council.
Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Bob L. and seconded by Alicia S. Unanimously approved.
Contract with A & M Rehab for Roofing Project Approved by email with 7 Yes votes and 0 No votes on April 18, 2020.
Stimulus Payroll application Approved by email with 7 Yes votes and 0 No votes on April 14, 2020.
Motion: Approve the Ministry Site Profile on 4/23/2020. Motion by Diane W. and Second by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
Approve Sheri Barker & Sherri Coughlin as authorized signers on the St. Mark’s accounts held at Union Bank. Unanimously approved.
Reports:
Pastor Dan
▪ Pastor Dan is continuing devotions, prayers, phone calls, and sermons
Property Committee
• A&M Rehab Construction continues to work on the roofing repairs and expects to be finished soon.
Leadership Development: Discussion of 17 Efficiency Management Principles during This Crisis: Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Reverend Paul Chappell.
⁃ Focus on the Power of Prayer – Trust in God – Go to the Need
⁃ Next steps for Council: Follow up with everyone – how can we better care for our members?
New Business:
Sheri Barker closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 8:11 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday May 18, 2020 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Meeting called to order at 6:06 P.M. by Sheri Barker
Members present Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez Minister: Pastor Dan
Guests Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer Devotion and Prayer led by Rachael Perez
Action Items
• February 25th 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
•Motion: Approve to the February 25th 2020 minutes. Motion by Diane W., second by Bob L. Unanimously approved.
• Bob Briggs was contacted by Tower Point regarding the Use of the Verizon Tower. Tower Point would like to pay St. Marks $375,000 to purchase the lease of the tower for 99 years; Tower Point would then lease out the tower to other carries to make a profit, a portion of each sub-lease would return to St. Mark’s. We currently receive $20,400/year from the Verizon contract.
There could be Capital Gains as well as Property Tax Implications in this sale. Dick Bolin is reviewing and will provide the council with more details as he finds them out.
▪ Dick Bolin researched the Property Tax of Equalization notice for the state of CA. and spoke to Yen, a Representative. This is an ongoing topic and Dick is staying in contact with The Board of Equalization.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the February Financial reports with Council.
▪Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Sherri C. and seconded by Bob L. Unanimously approved.
Reports:
Pastor Dan
▪ Pastor Dan is investigating how to use our puppets to enhance his online sermons
▪ Good Friday On-Line Service at 5:30pm
▪ Palm Sunday On-Line Service – Pastor Alicia
▪ Easter Service On-Line- Pastor Dan
Property Committee
• Bob Lechner shared information regarding the work that will need to be done around St. Marks. A&M Rehab Construction has provided an estimate for the roofing of Jacobson Hall and the upper campus buildings.
• Due to the budget shortfall and the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, Diane Wages recommended that we wait 3 months and then re-evaluate budget stability before contracting with A&M to do the roofing. Council agreed.
• Sherri C. suggested a capital campaign to fund the roofing project when we are worshipping together again in the sanctuary. Council agreed.
• Council asked Bob Lechner to follow up with Bobb Briggs and Chris Lewis to determine the necessary/ immediate jobs in priority order. One of the first areas needing attention as soon as possible is Jacobson Hall’s roof.
Leadership Development: Discussion of Leading Through a Crisis – Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Reverend Paul Chappell.
⁃ Focus on the Power of Prayer – Trust in God – Go to the Need
⁃ Next steps for Council: Follow up with everyone – how can we better care for our members?
New Business:
▪ Melissa Tierra will be resigning 4/16/20
Rachael Perez closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 7:43 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday April 27, 2020 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Meeting called to order at 6:34 P.M. by Bob Lechner
Members present Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sheri Barker, Sherri Coughlin, and Rachael Perez Minister: Alicia Saenz
Guests Dick Bolin
Opening Prayer Devotion and Prayer led by Bob Lechner
Action Items
▪ January 21st 2020 Council Meeting Minutes were reviewed by Council members.
▪ Motion: Approve to the January 21st 2020 minutes. Motion by Diane W., second by Sherri C. Unanimously approved.
▪ Bob L. opened up the election of church council roles
▪ Motion: Accept the Church Council roles for 2020 as described in the agenda.
Motion by Sherri C., second by Diane W. Unanimously approved.
▪ Dick Bolin researched the Property Tax of Equalization notice for the state of CA and spoke to a Representative. The information provided by Dick indicated that while St. Marks is generally considered a non-profit religious organization, there are two relatively small exceptions due to 1) Verizon Cell tower on the property which is a for-profit company, as well as 2) Lutheran Social Services, our tenant which is not considered a religious organization. So St. Marks must continue paying a small amount of property taxes for the present time.
However, pending further study by Dick Bolin, St. Marks may need to update/ modify the Articles of Incorporation in order to reduce exposure to property taxes. Dick will continue to explore options to minimize taxes with this CA Board.
▪ Treasurer Diane Wages reviewed the January Financial reports with Council.
Motion: Approve the Financial Report as presented. Motion by Sherri C. and seconded by Sheri B. Unanimously approved.
Reports
Pastor Alicia
▪ Alicia asked for more publicity and assistance with the Easter Egg Hunt festivities to draw more children in.
▪ Bishop Andy was very impressed when he attended the Hispanic Service at his last visit on 2/16/20.
▪ Ash Wednesday services will be held 2/26/20. 5:30 p.m. English, 7:00 p.m. Spanish.
Property Committee
▪ Bob Lechner shared information regarding the work that will need to be done around St. Marks. There is a contractor willing to do the work, but due to the budget, the property committee will determine the necessary/ immediate jobs in priority order. One of the first areas needing attention is Jacobson Hall’s roof.
Leadership Development: Discussed the Introduction of Brene` Brown’s Dare to Lead
New Business:
▪ Lenten Potlucks begin 3/4/20 at 5:30pm each Wednesday evening in Lent through 4/1/20.
▪ Kitchen up-keep, cleaning being done, need to speak to other groups using it. Sheri will follow up with representatives of other congregations regarding monthly deep cleaning.
▪ Hall Rental fee being reconsidered. A team will be formed to review costs and appropriate rental rates for members and non-members.
▪ Musicians are booked through Easter, after that a Worship Team will need to review.
▪ Sheri Barker closed the meeting with Prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 8:31 P.M.
Next Council meeting will be Monday March 23, 2020 6:00pm – 8:00pm
President Robert (Bob) Lechner called the 66th
Annual Congregational Meeting to order at 10:25 a.m. President Lechner acknowledged a quorum of 35
members was present and a sign-in sheet was circulated to record the members in
attendance. Pastor Karin Boye led the
congregation in an opening prayer and Spanish language minister Alicia Saenz
translated key points of the meeting for the Hispanic members of the
congregation.
Approval of the Minutes:
President Lechner asked for a motion to accept the minutes of the
January 27, 2019 Annual Meeting. Motion
to approve the January 27, 2019 minutes of the Annual Meeting was made by Herb
Geier, seconded by Billy Cox, and unanimously approved.
Election of the 2020 Church Council: Continuing members: Bob Lechner, Diane Wages, Sherri
Coughlin. Michael Marquez, Freddie Lizarraga,
Sheri Barker and Rachel Perez were elected as new members. Motion to approve the 2020 Church Council
as nominated was made by Ann Larsen, seconded by Roz Nelson and unanimously
approved.
Election of 2020 Legacy Committee: The Legacy Committee consisting of Meredith
McCall, Chris Lewis, Marcia Salvestrini, Rachel Perez and Karl Larsen were
elected. Motion to approve the Legacy
Committee as nominated was made by Roz Nelson, seconded by Bob Lechner and
unanimously approved.
Election of 2021 Nominating Committee: The 2021 Nominating Committee consisting of
Roz Nelson, Diane Wages, Bob Lechner, Dorothy Geier and Laura Marquez were
elected. Motion to approve the 2021
Nominating Committee as nominated was made by Audrey Voight, seconded by Herb
Geier and unanimously approved.
Election of Lay Representatives for 2020 Pacifica Synod
Assembly, May 28-30, 2020 at California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks,
CA. President Lechner requested a
volunteer to represent St. Marks. Herb
and Dorothy Geier volunteered to participate on behalf of St. Marks.
Presentation of 2020 Budget:
An amended 2019 Balance Sheet and Proposed Budget was handed out to the
congregation. Diane Wages presented the
2019 Balance Sheet and explained the components.
The only difference between the 2020 Proposed Budget that
was included in the Annual Report and the one approved by the Congregation in
this meeting is the addition of the Independent Worship Technician which was
accidentally left off the version shared with members in the Annual Report.
Reserve Accounts: Diane
explained that the new Balance Sheet format shows the Reserve Accounts that
were established in 2019 for Facilities (Buildings & Grounds), Pastoral
Call (support for the Call Committee’s needs), Debt Service, and Money Market
reserve. These funds represent
designated savings to be drawn down as needed for each area of concern. These Reserves will not show up on the Profit
and Loss statements.
Since the Reserve accounts are savings for specific
purposes, it is important that the congregation monitor these accounts and
strive to replenish the accounts as they are drawn down. To assist with this matter, Church Council
has approved that any excess income at the end of a year be transferred to one
of the savings accounts to offset expenditures.
$7,934 will be transferred to the Facilities Reserve to assist with the
anticipated roofing project for the outbuildings in 2020.
Designated Funds:
Diane pointed out that the $3905 in the Project Hand account represents
funds given by the congregation. These
funds are drawn down periodically by Project Hand to buy groceries.
Long Term Liabilities:
Diane noted that the Revitalization Loan is finally below $300,000. This is important because, for the first
time, the majority of our payments will be applied to the principal rather than
interest.
Proposed Budget: The
2020 Proposed budget was presented against the historical data from 2018 and
2019. Diane noted that the 2018 Actuals
show how generous the congregation was in helping rebuild the financial
foundation for St. Marks. We were not
paying for a pastor or an office assistant, so we had a net income of $144,882
with a positive cash flow of $104,753 for the year. We were able to stabilize the church through
the dedicated efforts of the members both financially and through their
unselfish volunteer efforts.
The 2019 income was less, as anticipated, than 2018 because
many members caught up on postponed giving or assisted with the Adopt-a-Bill
campaign during 2018. Both spending and
income were below expectations, so we ended the year with a net cash flow for
the second year in a row. The 2020
proposed Budget estimates total income at $320,900 reflecting an increase of
only $825 over 2019.
Pastoral Salary: Since we don’t know exactly what we will need for our new Settled Pastor’s all-inclusive salary, the Budget Committee (comprised of Diane Wages, Diane Nissen, Laura Ortiz, Audrey Voigt and Tom Larsen ) used Synod input to arrive at an estimated $100,000 total package for a new pastor. This may need to be modified when the Call Committee selects a potential candidate and begins negotiations.
Staff Salaries: The
Budget Committee has reduced staff salaries slightly because staff did not
fully utilize their budgeted hours in 2019.
Each staff member has a maximum annual salary budgeted in parentheses
after the position designation.
Other Major Category Notes:
Administrative Expenses are anticipated to
remain stable in 2020.
Building Maintenance was decreased to $5,000 in
2020. This is in anticipation that the
majority of the maintenance will be major projects and be appropriately drawn
from the Facility Reserve Fund.
The congregation has returned to paying the full
budgeted Synod Benevolence in 2019. The
2020 budget reflects a $750 increase in Benevolence.
A new line item was added in the 2020
budget: $1,000 for Mission. During the Transition Team potlucks with the
congregation, the discussion was begun about making St. Marks a mission
church. Although this Mission has not
been fully defined, the Budget Committee wanted to ensure there is a budget
item to support the new Mission focus.
Diane Nissan pointed out that “a budget is not a spending plan. It is our best guess about income and expenditures.” We may need to adjust these estimates as the year progresses, depending on the month-to-month totals. Church Council and the Budget Committee will continue to monitor our progress.
Diane Wages ended her budget presentation by thanking the
congregation for being so generous with time, talent and money. Together, through our individual and
collective gifts, we have kept St. Marks alive and working well.
Motion to Adopt the 2020 Budget as presented was made by
Chris Lewis, seconded by George Stallard, and unanimously approved.
Other Business:
Questions about St. Marks:
Bob Lechner encouraged members to come to Church Council (either at a
meeting or individually) with any question or concern about St. Marks. If you choose to attend a Council Meeting,
you will be first on the agenda so you can ask your question, make a suggestion
or provide other input, and then you can be on your way.
Flickering Lights in the Sanctuary: Concern was expressed about the flickering
lights in the Sanctuary. At first, just
the choir lights were flickering and that problem was solved by turning up the
amps that feed the lights. The Property
Committee will investigate further and make a recommendation to Church Council
regarding resolution of the problem.
Legacy Committee By-Laws:
Marcia Salvestrini asked the congregation to approve the new By-Laws for
the Legacy Committee. Ann Larsen
moved to approve the new By-Laws, George Stallard seconded the motion, and the
congregation voted unanimously to approve.
In closing, President Bob Lechner thanked the many
volunteers who serve St. Marks every day, for example: The Altar Committee, the Transition Team,
Master Gardener Kyra Petrin, Ann & Karl Larsen and the coffee volunteers,
and the many people who show up mid-week and on weekends to assist with property
maintenance and a myriad of other unknown, but critical, tasks that keep St.
Marks moving forward.
Motion to Adjourn was made by Bob Petrin, seconded by Ann
Larsen and unanimously approved. The
meeting was adjourned at 11:14 a.m.
SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE CONGREGATION
St. Mark’s
Evangelical Lutheran Church
JANUARY 26, 2020
President Bob Lechner called the Special Meeting of the
Congregation to order at 11:15 a.m.
The purpose of this meeting was to elect a second Alternate
member for the Call Committee to represent the voice of our Hispanic members in
the Call process. Gabby Gutierrez has
volunteered to serve in this capacity on the Call Committee.
The motion to approve Gabby Gutierrez as second Alternate
to the Call Committee was made by Billy Cox, seconded by Dick Bolin and
unanimously approved by the congregation.
Motion to Adjourn the Special Congregational Meeting was
made by Bob Petrin, seconded by Sheri Barker and unanimously approved by the
congregation. The meeting was adjourned
at 11:17 a.m.
