Minutes
Zion Lutheran Church
Council Meeting
October 14, 2008

Those Present: A. J. Raso, Andy Simon, Bobbie Joines, Jerry Stowe, Barbara Vanderhoof, Steve Anfinson, Donna Kelly, Sara McKeon, Donna Jenschke, Jennie Motheral, Pastor Don Rauhut, and Beverly Fischer. Visitors: Martha Kies, Gerd Rohleder, Linda Corder, David Weden, Bill Williams, Roger Lampman, and Will Bigott.

Meeting called to order by President A. J. Raso.

Opening Prayer and Devotional: Steve Anfinson gave the devotional and opening prayer.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor Rauhut reminded us that God is in control and will bless us. Ultimately all things will become good. All things work to good for those who trust in the Lord. My role here is to offer spiritual counsel.

Treasurer’s Report: Sara McKeon reported another rough month on the offerings. Offerings are $26,000 below budget. Jo Davidson billed Nikki’s pay to youth director. Third quarter trust of $4,500 was received early October and is not reflected in the budget. Education materials should be returned, hoping to receive a credit.

Approval of Minutes: September 09, 2008 meeting were reviewed, Steve Anfinson motioned to approve minutes. Bobbie Joines seconded the motion. Motion carried by all.

Action/Discussion Items:

Nominating Committee: Linda Corder reported the only vacancy is Fellowship. Jennie Motheral will chair Evangelism. Copy of nominees distributed.
 

Staff Support Committee: Roger Lampman submitted report, copy distributed. A.J. Raso has send e-mail to members with his suggestions as to what the committee duties should be. Committee has written their role description which was read to council. Pastor reported he met with staff to gain insight on their concerns which are as follows: 1. grievances and resolutions-want a group to which they can go and express concerns. 2. Group to which they can relate with to address problems. 3. Felt they should have one committee member to which they could relate. Staff also would like to have two informal meetings a year with Support Committee in the evening, each taking turns hosting the gathering. Finally, that this would be a group of individuals that would praise them, constructively criticize them, and just give overall comments. A.J. stated Staff Support Committee is there only after person has gone to immediate supervisor. If problems arise and staff goes to committee, committee will require they go to Pastor first Committee will be available to staff and meet when necessary.

Constitution Update: David Weden submitted report of proposed changes, copy distributed. Sara MeKeon motion all Continuing Resolutions hereby are abolished effective tonight. Motion seconded by Steve Anfinson. Motion carried by all.

Interim Sunday School Coordinator: A.J. reported Sherri’s position should be extended. Steve Anfinson motion to extent $1200 monthly salary 30 days. We ask Pastor Rauhut as administrative leader to communicate to her that we would like that assessment and recommendations report for reconsideration by next council meeting. Donna Kelly seconded motion. Motion carried by all,

Call Committee: David Weden requested input from council members, questioner distributed, time was given to answer, discussion followed. Pastor Bigott stated having a Mission Statement will assist with call process. David Weden stated business cards were given at the LCMC convention; there are a few good prospects; will send packets to those interested when available.

President’s Comments: A.J. Raso reported Jo needs budgets by November 3, 2008. Jo also needs three emergency contact names and numbers for security company. Contacts are David Weden, Andy Simon and Jo Davidson. Jennie Motheral motion to have Pastor Rauhut’s administrative effective date October 1, 2008. Motion seconded by Bobbie Joines. Motion carried by all. Pastor Chancellor is requesting health benefits through October 15 costing $454.84. Bobbie Joines motion to approve payment of $454.84 to health savings account. Donna Kelly seconded motion. Motion carried. December 8, 2008 is staff and council Christmas dinner. Place and time to be determined

Committee Reports:

Property - Jerry Stowe reported bell is in town, waiting for rep to install, holding final payment until installed. Gerd has been researching digital controller-button has been installed; controller is needed in media center. Cost will be more than $1500, may be $2000 or more as parts are made overseas. Jennie Motheral made a motion to approve the increase in cost. Motion second by Donna Kelly. Motion carried by all. Will work with worship to determine times the bell should ring. Memorial Garden land has been leveled and sprinklers installed, spent $2500 to level. Requested to transfer $2000 from Men’s Garden Fund to operating account. Sara to transfer finds in a.m. Building usage fees need to be examined. Need to set minimum fee as we are loosing money with cost of electricity. Suggests charging $25 charge for conference room and $50 for old sanctuary. Council agreed to suggested fees for now, will report back with detailed charge list. Web site-keep all newsletters, A.J. recommends current letter only. Suggestion to publishing youth calendar. Jennie Motheral to examine site. Monitoring to decrease cost. Suggests posting Praise Team on site, will mention to Misty Erlund. Video for broadcast has been modified, Pastor Chancellor removed. Ductwork has been repaired. Lights in two wings of attic installed for safety. Air conditioner motor has been replaced.

Zion Lutheran Children’s Center (ZLCC) - Steve Anfinson reported funds are tight. Enrollment is up to mid 80’s, 86 is maximum due to classroom configurations. Holy Cross Day Care has closed; this may help enrollment. Day care rate increases are allowed once a year; next increase not due till Spring. One third of enrollment is weekly pay which pays slightly higher tuition. Collections are coming along good; brakes are on all expenses.

Evangelism - Bobbie Joines motion for Jennie Motheral to fill vacated Evangelism seat Motion seconded by Jerry Stowe. Motion carried by all.

Benevolence - Donna Kelly submitted report (copy distributed at meeting). Prayer and devotional for November 11, 2008 meeting will be given by Pastor Rauhut.


Respectfully submitted,

Beverly Fischer
Church Council Secretary