St. Mary's on the Highlands Episcopal Church
Friday, May 24, 2013

Vestry Notes

The Vestry of St. Mary’s-On-The-Highlands held its regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 27.
 
Introduction of Derrick Hill – Rev. Evans introduced Rev. Deacon Derrick Hill, who took a few minutes to express his thanks to the parish for its support and outline his role at the church in three primary areas. Those are: 1. Outreach, which includes Pastoral care, the Stephen ministry, and Lay Eucharistic visitors. 2. Adult Christian Education and 3. Cursillo.
 
Senior Warden Report – Virginia Phillips offered an update from the Property Committee’s work on the parking lot project.  She reported that Don Cosper met with the designers to continue with design and cost planning.  The goal of committee is to look at the plans once again and try to get to a final number that makes sense for the parish. There was general discussion among the group. Mrs. Phillips will provide more updates at future Vestry meetings.
 
In May, the Finance Committee discussed the allocation of a $25,000 gift to St. Mary’s and decided the purchase of a new bus was needed. Anne Elizabeth Cowan took responsibility for research. Mrs. Cowan passed out an information sheet and presented her findings. The proposal calls for the purchase of a Ford E450 at a total cost of $56,125, to be financed with $35,000 cash down and the remaining financed at RBC Bank. The proposed dealer is Transportation South. Mrs. Phillips said the Finance Committee voted to approve the plan and is now seeking approval from the Vestry. Mrs. Cowan also mentioned the planned development of policies and procedures for the use of the van.  Mrs. Cowan stated that training would take place and that it is also required by the Church’s insurance policy. Mrs. Phillips said operation and management of the bus would be overseen by the Property Committee.  Ed Allen moved to approve the purchase. Danielle Dunbar seconded the motion and the Vestry approved the purchase by unanimous consent.
 
Assistant to the Rector’s Report – Evans – Rev. Evans noted that St. Mary’s Birmingham Hospitality Network week starts the 3rd of July. The BHN’s major fundraiser, an annual silent auction will be on July 28 at Ted’s Garage. The Young Adults group (generally about 25 to late 30s) is starting a four-Sunday Bible study – Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Last year’s Bible study was very well-attended. Rev. Evans is working with the Young Adult steering committee to build leadership for the future.
 
Finance Committee Report – Kendyl Lowe presented the monthly financial report. Revenue for May was $78,132, with YTD at $600,385, lower than the budgeted amount of $777,973, but slightly ahead of last year. Operating expenses were $113,193, a bit ahead of last year.  Sabbatical expenses are included in this amount. YTD expenses are at $519,569, and are more than last year. However, they are $79,063 below the budgeted amount.  Net income for the year is $81,816, just above the budget of $78,126. Cash on hand is $323,414, with $692,463 in designated funds. Danielle Dunbar moved that the financials be approved. The motion was seconded by Will French and the Vestry approved the financials by unanimous consent.
 
The next Vestry meeting will be on Monday, August 22 at 5:00 PM.