Peggy began the meeting by saying that the budget would take precedence over re-envisioning the Harvest Festival. Gerry said that currently there was a shortfall of $6,000 in the pledges for the 2008-09 year but that it should be fulfilled by the end of the budget year.Then began the discussion of the Budget for the 2009-2010 year and the congregation meeting on May 31.

There is a shortfall in the Asking Plan for the proposed budget for 2009-10 of approximately $16,000. Gerry said that the number of pledges was down by 12%.Gerry said that there were two possible solutions. The first was to modify expenses. In order to do that Gerry suggested that each board look at their expenses and see wat they could cut. The second solution was to either increase the pledge amounts or the number of pledges.Jan said that most churches were experiencing a 30% decrease in income due to the economy.

Peggy said that we needed to consider making changes to the proposed budget. Larry Cooke added that in the past when the congregation has been asked to make up a shortfall by increasing pledges, it has not been too successful and he was concerned given the current economy.

Then there was a short discussion of each Board's budget and whether it was a fixed cost or a discretionary cost.Gerry said that the Trustee's costs were fixed except for the shed repair funds and $3,000 for the custodians.

Larry Cooke then generously offered to match any additional pledges or increased pledges coming in up to the budget shortfall or $8,000.He also suggested sending out an email to that effect.

Peggy said that after the email was sent out and presumably pledges received and matched in the next two weeks, then Gerry could adgust the proposed 2009-10 budget. The congregation could then vote on it and perhaps decide to continue the deficit.

In the intervening weeks each Board was to look at its budget and decide what might be eliminated for the years 2009-2010.

Gerry, Don and Peggy will write the email with Stephen. Stephen also recognized that we do the budget by the grace of God, in ministry together.

Peggy said that due to her commitments, the email would have to be written tonight. So Nancy Jo made a motion to adjourn the meeting and it was seconded.

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