2007 MINUTES TO BE APPROVED

2007 Unity North Congregational Meeting

(February 25, 2007)

At 1:30 Judy Toensmeier called the meeting to order. A quorum was determined to be present with a count of 54 voting-eligible members. It was noted that meeting was being audio recorded for archival purposes.

Rev. Nancy Worth opened the meeting with prayer.

Motion to approve the Agenda as presented was made by Susan Fawillin and seconded by Barbara Wheeler. Carried by unanimous voice vote.

Motion to waive the reading of previous years Congregational Meeting Minutes was made by Steve Bentley, seconded by Charlotte Cornett. Carried unanimously by voice vote.

President’s Report – Judy Toensmeier

Introduced the many “Proud moments of Unity North into the record”

She thanked the Ministers, Staff, Board Members and Congregation for their numerous contributions to the successes of Unity North in 2006.

Judy spoke specifically about the very sound financial stability of the church. Noted the increase in per capita giving and success of several major events. Noted the Small Group Ministry accomplishments with over one-third of congregants involved in either CLC or SLG. Commented on the positive reviews of Rev. Bill’s classes, his awesome teaching ability and his positive nature. Mention was made of Kidsmas and it’s July Backpack Carnival and the positive impact they have had on the people served. Judy gave a “Hats Off” to the YFM and it’s leadership. The Music program and Penelope were acknowledged and specifically comment made regarding three Choir Festival event held in conjunction with Hillside Chapel, Seattle guests and the UNA Good Vibrations groups.

Remarks were closed by asking Staff to stand and be acknowledged.

Senior Minister’s Report – Rev. Nancy Worth

Rev. Nancy began by thanking Board of Trustees individually and asked each member to stand. Note was made regarding the continuing financial stability and made all aware of the hiring of Michael LaBounty as CPA for church. Financial accomplishments of note were increased cash flow, exceeding the Easter Match, largest Annual Auction ever, and even with small (11%) reduction in attendance giving was up 125%. Additionally, the new mortgage for five years was mentioned. Financial staff  Priscilla Hodge and Betsy Seguin were recognized. Small group ministry enhancements were noted. The YFM’s growth under Karla Hodge was noted. YFM is currently ministering to approx 110-120 children per Sunday and they are enjoying a customized Unity curriculum. Observed that the Appreciative Inquiry process was introduced to UNA and has been utilized in many ways including the Strategic Action Plan. With regard to SAP leaders Debbie McConnell and Hope Notice were mentioned and the four areas for focus; Growth, Financial Stability, Outreach and Youth and Family. The inspiring Music Ministry was congratulated for its growth and Choir Festival. The New Beginnings program was pointed to as a wonderful success and enhancement to a newcomer’s experience. Discussion about ongoing classes and Unity 101 being taught Sundays on an ongoing basis. Nancy then introduced some goals for 2007. They included: Impeccable Sunday Services for the entire church to focus on. Desire to possibly add Exec. Director to staff by mid-year 2007. Set intention for 50% of congregation being in a small group, YFM fully staff with combination of volunteers and paid staff personnel.  Lastly, UNA easily meeting 2007 budget with 100k in reserve and 260 participants on the Consistent Giving Program.

Assistant Minister’s Report – Rev. Bill Worth

Bill began by noting his Wednesday classes, his role in growth of Small Groups, his role on Sundays. He gave update on the 11 SLG and 6 CLC groups with 170 participants. Noting “that’s where ministry happens”, and the importance to the future growth of UNA will be aided by this ministry. Expects 20+ hosts for the Fall sign-ups.

Treasurers Report – Irma Adams

Irma acknowledged a strong year and how much she appreciated Betsy, Priscilla and the addition of Michael LaBounty. UNA has passed its Financial Review after much work. Michael LaBounty had developed a to-do list of 50 items and many were already accomplished or in process. Noted the creation of Finance Team, good overall condition of church and stated we are open for more! Briefly explained financials presented to meeting. Noted our mortgage closing costs, 10% tithe commitment and answered question regarding the parking lot fund and its designated status.

Youth and Family Report – Karla Hodge

Spoke on new security procedures for signing children in and out on Sundays. Noted the youth were very involved in “their service projects”. Work is ongoing on strengthening database of contacts with regard to parents and volunteers. Mentioned that many items she was to cover had already be addressed and closed with thanks and appreciation for all the love and support YFM receives.

Without any further old business to come before meeting, old business was closed.

Board Elections – Tom Ballenger

Tom was the Chair of Nominating Committee and members included Tom, Sandra Wilkes, Nancy Worth, Bill Worth and Barbara Moss. Tom began with thanks to the other team members for their excellent work. The slate was presented with brief candidate bio as follows:

Mike Arasin, Charlotte Cornett, Chantal DeBrosse and Ed Grove were the Nominating Committees recommendations and the floor was opened for other nominations. Judy Toensmeier read from the bylaws regarding qualifications for Board service and asked for any further nominations from the floor. Since there were no further nominations slate of candidates was closed. A majority by site vote confirmed the election of the proposed slate.

Judy T. thanked Nominating Committee for their service and proceeded to ask for nominations for a congregational representative for the 2007 Nominating Committee. The elected representative for 2007 is Barbara Wheeler and alternate being Tom Ballenger.

Business portion of meeting was closed and floor opened to questions. Several questions of a very general nature were addressed without need for their recording or further action to be taken.

Prior to conclusion Rev. Nancy asked congregation to hold vision around mortgage retirement, elevator and PowerPoint capabilities for UNA.

Motion made to adjourn meeting by Steve Bentley, seconded by Charlotte Cornett. Majority voice vote supported motion.

Rev. Bill closed meeting with prayer.

Minutes submitted by Steve Bentley, substituting for Jude Olsen, Secretary.