Recently, there have been some questions regarding the proposed construction project involving the area near the north end of the building’s narthex. This project has a long history involving multiple moving parts.
In 2019, a four year loan of $120,000, from the Memorial Fund, was approved at a special congregational meeting. This loan was to cover the cost of replacing the sanctuary roof, upgrade the lighting in the sanctuary, upgrade the fire alarm panel and upgrade accessibility at the rear entrance of the education wing. The work was completed in 2019 and 2020 at a final cost of $109,000. The cost of the work and the repayment of the loan was to be covered by a future capital appeal.
As everyone knows, the Hassinger property sold in February of 2022, with SMLC receiving $203,503 in proceeds from the sale. In March of 2022, the existing $75,000 loan from the Memorial Fund was repaid using proceeds from the sale of the property.
Most recently, architectural plans have been submitted for a construction plan along the north side of the building’s narthex to include adding a sacristy, accessible restrooms, a newer vestibule and an adjustment to the existing driveway. At the congregational meeting in February of 2022, a vote approved an expenditure of $50,000 for architectural and engineering services to prepare a bid/permit application package.
Although no visible signs of movement on this project can be seen, please know that there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes. It is anticipated that a bid/permit package should be completed by August 30th of 2022. Once this has been finalized, construction bids will be solicited.
It is further expected that bids should be received by the end of September. At that point we should be on solid ground with proposed construction costs. It is estimated that the finance package will include a proposed 3 to 5 year Capital Appeal to assist in funding the package. Once this has all taken place, a finance package will be assembled by the Finance Committee. This will be followed by a Special Congregational meeting, at which time a vote will be taken to approve the project and the finance package.
There has been discussion regarding the use of the proceeds from the sale of the Hassinger property. No decision has been made regarding how these proceeds will be used or distributed. It is understood by Council that moving forward with the proposed construction project is not the only issue in which finances are relevant. Several congregants have expressed interest in using some of the proceeds from the sale of the property in other areas. ALL of St. Matthew’s congregants have a voice. To allow for those voices to be heard, the Adult Forum session for Sunday, September 25th, has been scheduled to hear from those who wish to present their ideas. This will be an opportunity for those who are looking to provide feedback and ideas regarding other mission related expenditures. Hopefully this feedback will contain specific outlines along with approximated budgetary values.
SMLC is embarking on a new era. Some of the new changes may observed to be to the physical building, others may be seen in how we approach our ministries. But the common goal will always to be meeting our mission through Christ.
Tom Campbell
Council President