Bloomington Living Hope Lutheran Church
Church Council Meeting Minutes

Click on desired meeting minutes date:

Monday, March 17, 2008 @ 7:45 P.M.

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Bryan Aisenbrey, Peter Moeller, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, Brad Heins

Excused: Jeff Helgemoe, Rich Kyllo, Joel Wendlund, Mark Perry, Kurt Schmidt, Todd Strand, Kory Henkel

1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.


2) Synod Report: Reviewed the latest “WELS News”.

• National Worship conference in St. Peter coming up in July
• New President Rev. Matthew Krass of Luther Prep.
• Tracking for a $2.2M surplus at Synod for this year

3) Minutes: Two corrections are pending to the approval of the February minutes.


4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation
Buelow, John & Nicole children: J.T., MacKenzie, Cole, Maddie
Wenshau, Daniel Spouse: Jennifer children: Tyler, Jacob

Moved but Not Transferred
None for February

Release:
None for February

Transfer In: From:
Schulz, Brynn Christ Our Rock, Rochester, MN
Steffen, Brandon & Sarah Timothy Lutheran, St. Louis Park, MN

Profession of Faith:
Golter, Hermann & Wendy children: Connor, Anastasia
Wenshau, Jennifer Spouse: Daniel children: Tyler, Jacob

Return to Active Status from Moved but not transferred
None for March

Transfer Out: To:

Hunt, William Trinity Lutheran, Brillion, WI

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

• Good Lenten attendance this year
• Big contribution in 1st week of March
• Gearing up for Confirmation

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

• Roof at BLS is leaking
• Marty Miller has received another call to Phoenix, AZ
• Mt. Hope Redemption is not closing

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

• No report

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

• Love in Action workshops are being held to personally interview all coordinators regarding their team, concerns, and activities.
• Congregation meeting question about the number of hits to the BLLH church web site. Many other interesting facts are available, but the web site hits are increasing.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

• Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up 1.6% compared to a base budget of + 9%.
• Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru December are $1,392,000 with available funds of $150,000.
• Anticipated STV receipts (Feb08 – Mar08) are $130,000, which is estimated at 85% of plan.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

• Selected priority action items to start working on immediately are congregational education, establish a “follow-up network, and Kiosks.
• Other points of discussion were action items to encourage members to act, with items such as block party kits, and possible activities for neighborhood groups (FMSC, etc.)
• Mercy ministries: book drive for Hurricane Katrina library, a family that needs financial help due to a medical condition, Camp Croix adopted a cabin, and the Tem Helman fund.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

• Gym floor about $2,000 short of goal, and a new floor has been ordered.
• The Pipe burst at Living Hope has been fixed again.

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

• Goals from last year reviewed and the board is very pleased with the accomplishments.
• Goals for next year were also discussed and aggressive targets are planned for the coming year.
• The fact that BLLH is fully staffed has helped improve the work/life balance of our staff.
• Other staff members were also review as part of this process and the board is satisfied with the accomplishments of this year and the goals for next year.

5) Board of Family Ministry:

• Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

• Updates to the EE handbook

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

• No report did not meet.

8) Board of Trustees: (Todd Strand)

• Met on March 6th and discussed the need for both short-term and long-range planning.
• A walk-through of all three facilities will take place on Tuesday, March 18th to establish priorities.

Discussion/Action Items:

• Buildings Update – two screens and projectors have been installed.
• Share the Vision –
• Daisuke Nakamoto status – We did not revoke our petition and the attorney believes we can argue he is still doing the work of the church. Pastor has reached out to the WELS Kingdom workers to see if they can further fund him.

Next Council Meeting is April 21, 2008 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding

Monday February 18, 2008 @ 7:45 P.M.

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Bryan Aisenbrey, Peter Moeller, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Schroeder, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, Todd Strand, Mark Perry

Excused: Jeff Helgemoe, Kory Henkel, Rich Kyllo, Brad Heins, Joel Wendlund

1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.

2) Synod Report: Reviewed the latest “WELS News”.

• Considering sale of the Synod Admin building and relocating with the proceeds
• $700K anonymous gift to WELS with about $100K going to capital budget.
• Parish assistance consultant called
• Lawsuit against California Lutheran HS thrown out

3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the January 2008 church council meeting minutes.

4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation
Hunt, Thomas (wife: Andrea & child Wyatt already members)
Ploof, Steve & Christine children: Kalli & Alyssa

Moved but Not Transferred
None for February

Release:
None for February

Transfer In:
None for February

Profession of Faith:
Schmitz, Jake children: Daniel, Molly & Franklin

Return to Active Status from Moved but not transferred
Jezeritz, Patrick & Brandy children: Bobby & Raymond

Transfer Out:
None for February

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

• Gene G – Stained glass
• Lent attendance is strong
• Shut ion list growing with the aging of our congregation, but at the same time we have had some interest form Bloomington young families

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

•    Roof at BLS is leaking
•    Marty Miller has received another call to Phoenix, AZ
•    Mt. Hope Redemption is not closing

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

• No report

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

• Sunday School: attendance down, due to basketball tournament season
• Love in Action steering committee study results presented to coordinators and will also be presented at the congregation meeting

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

• Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up -1% compared to a base budget of + 9%.
• Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru December are $1,376,000 with available funds of $113,416.
• Anticipated STV receipts (Jan08 – Mar08) are $155,000, which is estimated at 85% of plan.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

• Will have Diane re-format the Think Tank items and distribute. This document will be used on 2/23meeting

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

• Education Sunday, good comments from everyone
• Several BLC members commented they did not know the school was that big
• Marty Miller has returned the call to Bethany in Manitowoc, WI
• Looking for auction donations for family fun day
• Pipe burst at Living Hope

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

• Meeting to discuss goals

5) Board of Family Ministry:

• Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

• A revised salary matrix was presented. Matrix developed by the synod, but modified to be more in line with our current structure
• Concern was raised by members of the staff over the wording in the Personnel manual. The wording was modified to reflect a kinder tone
• Discussion about concern that not enough money is budgeted for teachers to get State certified or maintain their state certification

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

• No report did not meet.

Discussion/Action Items:

• Buildings – two screens and projectors to allow the cross to be seen. Installation can start by the 2nd week in March and be completed by Easter. Idea, put a monitor in the Narthex area with announcements, WELS connection, etc. Will discuss whether we should take down the old screen. It is recommended that BLC have the oil tank checked for leaks, but BLC is not obligated to do so.
• Vision Check – February 23, 2008 – Hope to have Love in Action covering donuts and registration, but council members are encouraged to help. Joel Liesener will be master of ceremonies.
• Daisuke Nakamoto status – Had meeting with Immigration attorney representing the church and Daiske last week.
• Budget Committee meeting kickoff 3/11 @ 7:30PM.

Next Council Meeting is March 17, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding

Monday January 21, 2008 @ 7:45 P.M.

 

 

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Peter Moeller, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Schroeder, Brad Heins, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, Kory Henkel, Joel Wendlund, Todd Strand

Excused: Mark Perry, Kurt Schmidt, Pastor Pudell

1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Schroeder opened with prayer.

2) Synod Report: Reviewed the latest “WELS News”.
  • Walking together in 2008
  • Justification for spending and why
  • Set aside $200K for 2 new churches, one in Nevada and one in Colorado
  • Youth Rally in Ames, Iowa

3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the December 2007 church council meeting minutes.

4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation:
None for January

Moved but Not Transferred:
None for January

Released:
Bronson, Daniel
Kennedy, Nathan

Transfer In:
Eichhorst, Sarah Salem Lutheran, Milwaukee, WI
Hunt, Andrea (child: Wyatt) Good Shepherd, Burnsville, MN
King, Paul & Renee Christ Lutheran, Eden Prairie, MN
King, Scott Christ Lutheran, Eden Prairie, MN
Peltier, Barry & Diane Good Shepherd, Burnsville, MN
Peltier, Karianne Good Shepherd, Burnsville, MN
Pomerenke, David & Christa Timothy Lutheran, St. Louis Park
Saucke, Brooke Timothy Lutheran, St. Louis Park
Saucke, Jonathan & Tina Timothy Lutheran, St. Louis Park
Walta, David St. Paul’s Lutheran, Lake Mills, WI
Zimmerman, Christina Trinity Lutheran, Merrill, WI

Profession of Faith:
Hagen, Brian

Transfer Out:
Berger, Wallace Grace Lutheran, Hutchinson, MN
Holmes, Tammy (Child: Stacy) Crown of Life Lutheran, West St. Paul, MN

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

The plans are to meet with the Pastor’s on goals.

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

  • Roof repairs going on
  • Gym floor fund raising going well

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

  • Sanctuary and Encounter are up and running again
  • Looking at Confirmation for 2008-09 and considering come changes
  • Online Rummage Sale
  • Parent Seminars coming in March and April
  • Upcoming events T-Wolves 2/4, 3 Degrees concert 2/19, and Paintball 2/23

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

  • Sunday School: attendance down, but so was overall church attendance
  • Love in Action: results of LIA study will be presented at the planning meeting on 2/23.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

  • Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up 1% compared to a base budget of + 9%.
  • Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru December are $1,359,000 with available funds of $109,000.
  • Anticipated STV receipts (Jan08 – Mar08) are $220,000, which is estimated at 85% of plan.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

  • The Board did not meet this month.
  • Evangelism – “Think Tank” meeting was held on January 5th and went very well. Report to come.


3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

  • Tuition and Fees for 2008-2009
  • Christmas tree wish list went well. Nearly $5,000 in donations was received.
  • Education Sunday plans

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

Waiting on goals to review.

5) Board of Family Ministry:

Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

  • Health Insurance will stay with Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Job descriptions need to be updated
  • Discussions held on Director of Youth Ministries and the Ministry Coordinator positions

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

No report did not meet.

Discussion/Action Items:

  • Buildings – Allstar Constuction – roof completed at BLC. However, it still leaks. The dollars to fix the roof went up from original estimated due to interior damage. The Contractor requested 2nd payment, however, BLC will hold back $10K for any additional issues that may come up.
  • Trustees Committee Chair – Todd Strand has agreed to be the new Chair to get started.
  • Large group planning meeting will be on February 23, 2008 to discuss outreach, Church structure, Love in Action, and expansion.
  • Health Insurance – BCBS will be carrier again for 2008.
  • Housing Allowances – IRS are as follows:

Total Monthly
Henkel, Kory $22,000 $1,833.33
Lentz, Norm $36,000 $3,000.00
Martinson, Ron $29,000 $2,416.67
Miller, Marty $24,000 $2,000.00
Pudell, Rod $40,000 $3,333.33
Schmidt, Kurt $40,000 $3,333.33
Schroeder, Eric $33,000 $2,750.00
Spaulding, Scott $34,000 $2,833.33
Strehler, Lyle $36,000 $3,000.00
Zoellner, Mark $35,000 $2,916.67

These allowances are now on record. The estimates can be changed once during the year if necessary.

  • Share the Vision – “Last Lap” communication
  • A Building Expansion Committee has been formed by approval from the Church Counsel. Denny Walters has agreed to be the Chair for this committee.
  • The discussion on the new BLS tuition rates was a lengthy one and tuition rates were approved.
  • The status of the Ministry Coordinator Position has not been determined as yet. This position has been funded by Share the Vision for the past 3 years. In order to extend this position, it may be brought before the congregation.
  • The Church Counsel voted to make the Director of Youth Ministry a permanent position.

Next Council Meeting is February 18, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding


 

Monday December 18, 2007 @ 7:45 P.M.

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Peter Moeller, Kurt Schmidt, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder, Brad Heins, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, and Kory Henkel

Excused: Joel Wendlund

1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.

2) Synod Report: Reviewed the October “WELS News”.

  • Debt consolidation into general operating budget
  • Chapel project
  • Ad Hoc commission set up for planning

3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the December 2007 church council meeting minutes.

4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation:
Stoner, Rita

Moved but Not Transferred:
None for December

Release:
None for December

Transfer In:
None for December

Profession of Faith:
None for December

Transfer Out:
Buboltz, Daniel St. Paul’s Lutheran, New Ulm, MN

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

  • The Thanksgiving Celebration is over.
  • We are currently preparing for Christmas.

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

  • December 22nd will be the Christmas services.
  • The student teachers are gone.
  • Roof repairs going on.

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

  • Junior High Christmas party
  • Senior High Christmas party
  • Preparing for Spring

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

  • Both Church locations held the Sunday School Christmas programs
  • Love in Action steering committee continues to possible refinements to this program.
  • Mercy Ministries – families in need were identified and have received donations.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

  • Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up 1% compared to a base budget of + 9%.
  • Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru September are $1,320,000 with available funds of $67,000.
  • Anticipated STV receipts (Dec07 – Mar08) are $300,000, which is estimated at 90% of plan.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

  • Mercy ministries involved with Operation Christmas Child. 40 people worked at the warehouse packing crates for shipment.
  • Evangelism – “Think Tank” had its first meeting in an effort to formulate some ideas for plans of action to be presented at the congregational meeting in January.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

A meeting was held since the last board meeting. Areas of discussion included Property report, Technology committee, goals for 2007-08, Robert Pannier, new gym floor and scoreboard, tuition and fees for 2008-09, and a tuition % discussion.

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

Annual Review policy for Pastor’s will get started in January.

5) Board of Family Ministry:

Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

A meeting was held the discussion topics were the Dir of Youth Ministries and Ministry Coordinator.

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

  • Stewardship Sunday was December 2nd, with bulletin insert and 5 minute talk after service.
  • Encourage everyone to complete the Share the Vision campaign strong, hopefully completing pledges in 2007 if possible.
  • Prayerfully consider your contribution levels for 2008.

Discussion/Action Items:

  • Buildings – Allstar Construction says roof repairs are completed.
  • Trustees Committee Chair - Still looking to identify new candidate for Chair.
  • Large group planning meeting will be on January 12, 2008 to discuss outreach, steering committee, expansion, and the constitution.
  • Rotation of Trustees committee – The Chair is through the end of this year, and elect a new one next year.
  • Discussion about what to do about Director of Youth Ministry and Ministry Coordinator positions with the Board of Personnel.

Next Council Meeting is January 21, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding

 

Monday November 19, 2007 @ 7:45

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Peter Moeller, Kurt Schmidt, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder, Brad Heins, Joel Wendlund, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson

Excused: Norm Lentz, Kory Henkel


1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.


2) Synod Report: Reviewed the October “WELS News”.

  • Debt consolidation into general operating budget
  • Chapel project
  • Ad Hoc commission set up for planning


3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the October 2007 church council meeting minutes.


4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation:
Forsmark, Ju Young
Child: Elle

Moved but Not Transferred:
None for November

Release:
Bourdeaux, Lisa
Children: Luke & Lance

Transfer In:
Rasmussen, Valerie Christ Ev. Lutheran, Marshall, MN

Profession of Faith:
Forsmark, David
Child: Elle

Mickle, DeWayne

Transfer Out:
Bina, Jim King of Grace Lutheran, Golden Valley, MN


A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.


5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

  • The Visits held or scheduled so far is about 40%, they are fun to do and the meetings with people seem positive.
  • The Pastor’s are preparing for Thanksgiving and Advent.
  • We want to thank God for Pastor Schroeder. He is doing a great job.
6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)
  • First quarter parent conferences are completed
  • December 22nd will be the Christmas services.
  • The student teachers are gone.
  • Roof repairs going on.
  • Basketball participation is encouraged with additional teams.

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

  • Raised over 200 pounds of food from the Trick-or-Canned fooding.
  • Looking forward to Christmas activities, Operation Christmas Child, Parties, MOA Scavenger hunt.
  • Exploring the possibility of a Spring Break Mission Trip to Alabama.
  • Schwan’s Fundraiser
  • Working on Video Ministry funding.
  • Summer Schedule is set:
Soccer camp – June 23-27
Youth Rally in Duluth – July 13-15
Drama Camp – July 21-26


8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

  • The Annual Sunday School Christmas programs will be on Sunday December 16th.
  • Love in Action steering committee continues their analyses of the first year of the program’s operation.
  • Mercy Ministries – The benefit pancake breakfast held in Bloomington and Shakopee Applebee’s resulted in a total exceeding $7,500.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

  • Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up 2% compared to a base budget of + 9%.
  • Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru September are $1,300,000 with available funds of $177,000.
  • Anticipated receipts (Oct07 – Mar08) are $315,000, which is estimated at 90% of plan.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

  • Goals for the year were submitted to Diane.
  • Mercy ministries will continue with the current programs.
  • Evangelism – plan an outreach program in each neighborhood Bloomington and Savage.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

  • No action on the intersection of County road 18 just outside of Living Hope location. Hoped for signs reducing speeds or notification that school is there.
  • Trying to raise money for a new gym floor at Bloomington Lutheran School through private donations.
  • The new Board member have bee brought on.
  • Discussion on the cost of educations on a per student basis. What does the congregation think that should be?


4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

  • Annual Review policy for Pastor’s has been submitted.
  • The goals for the coming year:
- Continued oversight of the Church Worship.
- Finish off and implement the Annual review process for Pastor’s.
- Conduct Annual review of the Pastor’s.
- Help to facilitate successful transition of the current Board of Elder’s duties to the new governing structure.
- Successfully migrate current Elder’s Board members who wish to continue serving, to positions on the successor committees.

5) Board of Family Ministry:
Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

Suggested change to the personnel manual.

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

  • Stewardship Sunday will be December 2nd, with bulletin insert and 5 minute talk after service.
  • Encourage everyone to complete the Share the Vision campaign strong, hopefully completing pledges in 2007 if possible.
  • New stewardship committee board member, Mark Thistle.


Discussion/Action Items:

  • Buildings – Allstar Construction started repairs to the roof at BLC during the week of November 12th. Some rework was necessary due to the rotting of wood.
  • Trustees Committee Chair - Hold until December meeting.
  • Recommendation for the use of additional Share the Vision funds are to payoff debt, purchase bible materials for use in people’s home and seed money for the Living Hope expansion.
  • A final copy of the Personnel/Employee handbook and no changes were made.
  • The Education Board goals have been submitted.
  • Large group planning meeting will be on January 12, 2008 to discuss outreach, steering committee, expansion, and the constitution.



Next Council Meeting is December 15, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding


Monday, October 07, 2007 @ 7:45

 

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Norm Lentz, Kurt Schmidt, Kory Henkel, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder

Excused: Brad Heins, Peter Moeller, Joel Wendlund, Lyle Strehler, Keith Anderson

1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Pudell opened with prayer.

2) Synod Report: Reviewed the September “WELS News”.

  • There are some good on-line videos you can go out and take a look at.
  • The Synod is going away from printed materials

3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the September 2007 church council meeting minutes.

4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation
None for October

Moved but Not Transferred
None for October

Release:
None for October

Transfer In:
Douglas DeGier Zion Lutheran, Denver, CO
Child: Caitlyn
Brett Treichel St. Matthew Lutheran, Appleton, WI

Profession of Faith:
Stephanie DeGier (Spouse: Douglas)
Child: Caitlyn

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

The new member pastor visits have begun and will take into the New Year to complete. Not enough time to get through them all.

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

  • Working on the roof issues at Living Hope
  • BLS upgrade to the safety lights
  • Inspector passed BLS
  • New doors on the shed
  • New doors on the west sid
  • New gym floor being researched
  • BLS Boys were Conference Soccer Champs

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

  • Senior High Sunday nights going well
  • 5th & 6th split from the 7th & 8th has been successful
  • Bible study for Senior High “Mid-Weeks” at Living Hope on Tuesday nights
  • Bible study for Junior High :Drop-In’s” at BLC on Wednesday nights

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

  • Love in Action coordinators will be holding a social event on Saturday evening October 27th.
  • Sunday school student and teacher participation continues to run beyond last years levels.
  • Mercy Ministries – a second pancake breakfast for the benefit Owen Olson and family will be held October 27th at Applebee’s in Shakopee. Thrivent will match funds from both breakfast benefits up to $3,200.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

  • Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is up 8% over last year, but 1% less than budget.
  • YTD net received vs expenses is unfavorable to budget by $39K.
  • Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru September are $1,262,000 with available funds of $157,000.
  • Anticipated receipts (Oct07 – Mar08) are $343,000, which is estimated at 90% of plan.
  • Discussions around the 2007-08 budgets were discussed and final decisions were pushed back to a later date.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

  • Block party attendance was down. Other congregations used the same weekend as their kickoffs.
  • Temporary worship sign is up at Living Hope.
  • Working on information KIOSKS at each church location.
  • Prior Lake Showcase went well and we will probably do it again in the future.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

No Report

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

  • Went over a tentative review policy.
  • A goal of the discussions is to have something for review in November.


5) Board of Family Ministry:

Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

No Report

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

  • Did not meet
  • Stewardship Challenge – designate a Sunday in 1st part of December.

Discussion/Action Items:

  • Buildings – Allstar Construction Presentation RE: BLC Building:
  • The roof at BLC will be repaired. Currently, BLC is on the Allstar Construction waiting list.
  • The Planned Giving Committee met to re-organize the committee after a few years of inactivity.
  • The following members were approved by the Church Council: Carl Myers will act as Chairman and Sandy Tauer as Secretary. Each will serve a three year term. Others elected to two year terms are Roger Kamin, Tim Yotter, and Mark Liesener.
  • The November meeting will discuss how to use the additional Share the Vision Funds.
  • A final copy of the Personnel/Employee handbook has a target date of November.
  • Board goals are due in November.

Next Council Meeting is November 19, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding


 

Monday, September 17, 2007 @ 7:45

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Peter Moeller, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Lyle Strehler, Brad Heins, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, Kurt Schmidt, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder

Excused: Brad Heins


1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.

2) Synod Report: Reviewed the September “WELS News”. Still working on a DVD of the convention highlights.

3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the August 2007 church council meeting minutes.

4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation:
Katie Ferraz-Souza
Children: Dylan, Marina, Eliana, Adriana

Moved but Not Transferred:
Melissa Erlandson
Ashley Lind
Greg & Rachel Munoz
Children: Jade, Anastasia, Alyssa, Alexandria, Isaiah

Release: To:
Greg & Katherine Fontaine St. Michael’s Lutheran, Bloomington, MN
Children: Tenley & Caitlin

Transfer In:
Peter Believernicht Trinity Lutheran, Crete, IL
Jo Charmichael Petra Lutheran, Sauk Rapids, MN
Children: Carla, Heather, Crystal, Catarina
Andrew Hartwig Summerlin Lutheran, Summerlin, NV

Profession of Faith:
Kevin & Kathryn (Kate) Lunn
Child: Olivia

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

  • Everything is up and running with the 3rd Pastor
  • The 3rd service has been added to Living Hope
  • Sunday school attendance is up at both Bloomington and Living Hope. However, Bible study is down.

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

  • Enrollment down 5 students from last year
  • Tuition is too much to afford is Kurt’s best guess as to why enrollment is down
  • The heat was tough to deal with the first week of school
  • There are two student teachers: Andrew Haig and Dustin Ulchbrach
  • There are still some busing issues that need to worked out at Living Hope
  • Jo Charmichael is selling the home in St. Cloud
  • Buildings

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

  • Twins game in August was well attended, 85 people were there
  • Both the soccer and drama camps went well with 45 kids for soccer, 24 kids for drama
  • Youth rally in Dallas had 9 kids and 3 chaperones
  • Bible study for Senior High “Mid-Weeks” at Living Hope on Tuesday nights
  • Bible study for Junior High :Drop-In’s” at BLC on Wednesday nights

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

  • The Love in Action Steering Committee put a solution in place to address the change in service times at Living Hope.
  • Christian Growth & Outreach had the second annual block party. Crowds were down from the previous year, however, it was still successful as outreach event.
  • Mercy Ministries – a second pancake breakfast for the benefit Owen Olson and family will be held October 27th at Applebee’s in Shakopee. Thrivent will match funds from both breakfast benefits up to $3,200.

Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

  • Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is $254,830 favorable to budget by $10,916.
  • Tuition forecast for 2007-08 is $777,825, unfavorable to budget by $61,560 or about 7%.
  • Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru May are $1,225,000 with available funds of $150,000.
  • Remaining payment of $30,000 for the BLC carpet.
  • The Thrivent mortgage balance remaining is about $340,000. If available, and additional $75,000 to be paid by August 31st.
  • Discussions around the 2007-08 budgets were discussed and final decisions were pushed back to a later date.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

  • One main topic of discussion focused on the Block party. It went very well with attendance some place in the mid 400’s.
  • The other topic discussed was a new sign for the Living Hope site. The new sign will create high visibility along the highway, and also allow for more information to be shared with the passing traffic.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

  • Will be researching the enrollment decline to further determine the reasons for the drop.

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

  • Working on the annual review procedure for our Pastors of BLLH.
  • A policy will be coming for the Board to review next month.

5) Board of Family Ministry:

  • Tabled for now.

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

  • Brad was excused for the Council meeting, and the Board of Personnel did not meet during the month.

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

  • Share the Vision pledges going well. How to continue the same level of giving beyond STV.
  • New member visits 163 families
  • Stewardship Challenge – designate a Sunday in November sometime TBD.

Discussion/Action Items:

  • Buildings – Allstar Construction Presentation RE: BLC Building:
    • There was a brief discussion on the action of fixing the current problem with the roof after Rob came to speak at the August meeting.
    • Council Members were asked to recommend nominees for members and chair for the Trustees Committee. This would be to oversee the all the buildings and long range maintenance, spring and fall cleaning etc.
  • Personnel/Employee Handbook
  • A budget resolution is currently being review and discussed. A further meeting will be needed.
  • New service was added at Living Hope.
  • Strategic Goal Setting meeting is scheduled for Saturday, September 22, 9-11:30 @ BLC.
  • Council Installation will be held the weekend of September 23rd.
  • Congregational meeting to be held at Bloomington on Monday September 24th at 8:00 p.m.
  • Board goals – due November.
  • A discussion about Committee Membership to determine turnover on committees, what the committees are doing and not doing. A list of all committees and members was requested to determine who all is involved.
  • An audit committee is up and running on the Procedural Audit.

Next Council Meeting is October 15, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding

Monday, August 20, 2007 @ 7:45

Presiding President: Alan Mackenthun
Vice President: Peter Moeller
Secretary: Jeff Helgemoe

Present: Alan Mackenthun, Peter Moeller, Jeff Helgemoe, Mark Perry, Lyle Strehler, Brad Heins, Bryan Aisenbrey, Rich Kyllo, Keith Anderson, Norm Lentz, Kurt Schmidt, Pastor Spaulding, Pastor Pudell, Pastor Schroeder

Excused: Joel Wendland, Kory Henkel


1) Opening Prayer: Pastor Spaulding opened with prayer.


2) Synod Report: Reviewed the August “WELS News”. Briefly discussed the new changes that were proposed at the Convention.


3) Minutes: A motion was passed to approve the June 2007 church council meeting minutes.


4) Membership Action:

Adult Confirmation:

Sam Boyles
Daniel & Sharlene Whited
Children: Samuel & Alexander

Transfer Out: To:

Nicholas & Erin Lam To: Sure Foundation, Queens, NY
Todd, Janelle, Glavine, & Derek Matthes To: Mt. Olive, Appleton, WI
Hazel Paakonen To: Mt. Olive, Mankato, MN
Chris & Katy Thompson To: Mt. Olive, Mankato, MN
Children: Shanna, Brittney, Luke, Cole

Transfer In:

Brian Kunz Grace Lutheran, So. St. Paul, MN
Bethany Schroeder St. Bartholomew, Kawkawlin, MI
Eric Schroeder St. Bartholomew, Kawkawlin, MI
Matthew & Kristy Schroeder Christ Lutheran, Eden Prairie, MN

Profession of Faith:

Jammie & Karaline Hammel
Child: Jacek
Mervyn (Glen) & Indra Carrabon
Child: Faith

A motion was made and approved for these membership actions.

5) Pastors' Report: (Pastor Spaulding)

• Counseling center (Bachman & Associates) is starting in Burnsville which may be of service to our church needs in the future.
• Bloomington Lutheran Church to study the possibility of offering a worship service – Church for Young Families, similar to Living Hope, on a trial basis in the Fall.
• In the Pastor’s planning meeting it was noted that our church attendance is lagging, with reasons being noted and actions to be taken being identified.

6) Principal’s Report: (Kurt Schmidt)

• August 22nd orientation
• Teachers getting together to discuss rules for IPOD’s, MP3 players, cell phones, etc.
• No healies will be allowed in school this upcoming year
• Need housing for 2 student teachers in the months of October and November
• Fire inspector came through the school
• School times at Living Hope will be changing once Skakopee gets back to Kurt

7) Youth Ministry: (Kory Henkel)

• Summer activities were well attended.

8) Ministry Coordinator: (Norm Lentz) – see separate report

• Member communications – church website going well, check out “Our Leaders” page this will contain minutes from council meetings, pictures will be added. Also a “What’s New” page to allow people to check for changes without paging through the entire website.
• Preparing for the new Sunday School at both church campuses which start on September 9th.
• Love in Action has completed its first year. Looking for a way to Celebrate the end of the year, and how to re-energize teams for the year to come.
• Mercy Ministries – current focus has been on the family care initiatives with three families being assisted and additional fundraiser events being planned. Two major benefits were successfully completed for the Owen Olson family. Thanks to all who contributed to the Corn Roast and the Applebee’s breakfast.


Board Reports:

1) Board of Finance: (Keith Anderson) – see separate report

• Plate/envelope for fiscal year to date is $170,594 favorable to budget by $1,020.
• Tuition forecast for 2007-08 is $777,825, unfavorable to budget by $61,560 or about 7%.
• Share the Vision (STV) receipts thru May are $1,200,000 with available funds of $121,000.
• Remaining payment of $30,000 for the BLC carpet.
• Paid $150,000 of the STV funds to the Thrivent mortgage (bal remaining $343,000). If available, and additional $75,000 to be paid by August.
• Discussions around the 2007-08 budgets were discussed and final decisions were pushed back to a later date.
• July ended with a $130,000 line of credit balance due to typical summer cash flow patterns.

2) Board of Christian Growth and Outreach: (Mark Perry)

• Will focus on two specific areas for the next two years, mercy ministries and evangelism,
• Major emphasis this summer has been on Family Care Initiatives that received excellent response including the two major money raising activities (Family Corn Roast Benefit and Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast Benefit).
• More to come on the details.

3) Board of Education: (Joel Wendlund)

• Preparing for new school year.

4) Board of Elders: (Bryan Aisenbrey)

• No items to report

5) Board of Family Ministry:

• No items to report

6) Board of Personnel: (Brad Heins)

• Employee handbook was passed out for review at next meeting. Discussion items for the next meeting are health care to offer suggestions for the new handbook.

7) Board of Stewardship: (Rich Kyllo)

• Share the Vision pledges going well. How to continue the same level of giving beyond STV.
• New member visits
• Stewardship Challenge – designate a Sunday in November sometime TBD.


Discussion/Action Items:

• Buildings – Allstar Construction Presentation RE: BLC Building:
“Rob Vassallo from All Star Construction gave a report on the Bloomington building water leak problems and recommendations for resolving those problems with temporary repairs and long term reconstruction. Some corrective actions will be initiated this month and others will require additional study.”
• Council pictures will be taken at the next meeting on September 17th for all new council members.
• Council Members were asked to recommend nominees for members and chair for the Trustees Committee.
• Personnel/Employee Handbook
• Strategic goal setting – no action, will be continued with Fall council
• Church for Young Families at BLC/Service time change.
• Housing allowances:
Pastor Schroeder to be set at $17,000 for the remainder of 2007
Norm Lentz to be set at $35,028.
• Salaries – New WELS Guidelines – no action, continue to follow up in future.
• Council Installation will be held the weekend of September 23rd.
• Congregational meeting to be held at Bloomington on Monday September 24th at 8:00 p.m.
• Appreciation – Pastor Spaulding extended a welcome to the new church council members and his personal appreciation for the willingness to serve on the church council.


Next Council Meeting is September 17, 7:45 at BLC

Closed with prayer by Pastor Spaulding