EECS News

The Annual Meeting was held to elect new Vestry members and review activities and finances from 2025. The 2026 budget was also presented. The meeting began at 12:05 p.m. with a prayer by Senior Warden, Cass Cannon A quorum was declared to be present. Vestry Slate presented: Dan Lynn, Bob Wiard, and Mitzi White and approved by unanimous vote. Outgoing members Charlotte Hadfield, Deborah Patton, and Katherine Turner were acknowledged for their service. Treasurer John Kolp and Finance Committee Chair Ginny Wemmerus presented the budget for 2026 and a review of 2025. We currently show a budget surplus of $32,893, due to the absence of a rector and music director. However, that money will likely be needed in the coming year as we search for a new rector while maintaining church operations and maintenance. Everyone was encouraged to submit pledges if they had not done so already; they are critical to planning! John noted that approximately $60,000 will be withdrawn from the income generated by our endowment fund to help pay for the air-conditioning installation in the sanctuary. The capital campaign has so far brought in $315,269 towards our desired $500,000 (not including endowment or church funds). John also noted that the church pays for blessing box supplies, although members also generously contribute items. Ginny reminded everyone that starting in 2026, 2% of members' pledged contributions will be allocated for outreach expenses. The Search Committee of John Smallwood (chair), Marianne Miller, Marti Coles, Jeff Jones, Christianna Herrera, Elijah Davis, Rick and Marks were commissioned by Rev. Paul Weber during the worship service. They will start their work by collecting data and creating a church profile, which is necessary for the job to be posted through the diocese. The meeting adjourned at 12:27 p.m.