Board of Management Meeting

6 December 2004

Finance Report

Concern was expressed about the change from a budget surplus to a predicted deficit by the end of 2005. A recorded drop in income was disappointing considering that recent years had produced increased givings. Budget proposals for 2005, which depend on a 2% increase in present levels of giving, were presented and received Board approval (see also page 16).

A simplified procedure for the counting of the offering were described. Only Gift Aid offerings would be recorded in detail (necessary for reclamation of tax). Other WFO offerings would simply be noted as received. The new procedure was implemented in January.

Property Report

2004 had been far busier than the previous two years. Much work being done in connection with the Quinquennial Property Review and Annual Inspections of the church, halls and manse. Extensive flood damage had been caused to small hall and corridor by heavy rains in July. All works associated with flood damage were covered by the Insurance policy with only a £100 excess chargeable to St John's. The main culprit - the valley gutters - were now being inspected/cleaned on a two-monthly basis.

Main priorities for 2005 are:

• Complete urgent/essential works still outstanding from the QPR - bell tower ladder, ceiling cracks and protective plate for around kitchen urn.
• Modification to disabled toilet required to meet current requirements.
• Path makeover outside side entrance to Church/Halls. (see later)

Publications Report

There is to be a move towards re-cycled paper. After a small scale trial earlier last year, it had been decided that a full-scale test was now appropriate. The next order for paper would be for recycled stock.

Legacy Fund

The legacy fund, created to hold moneys given for Congregational purposes, was now standing at just under £18,000, due to a number of recent, generous bequests. A number of projects were discussed and the following approved:

• Upgrading of sound system.
• Slabbing and drainage work to side of Church near the side door to Hall
• Employment of a Mission Consultant to assess current situation and make proposals as part of long term investment in Mission
• Replacement of Hall chairs to improve comfort and renew damaged chairs

Pew cushioning and remodelling of chancel were also considered, but without guide costing, no decision was made.