Camp Hill UMC Church Council

May 27, 2025

In attendance: Douglas Kocher, Susan Thomas, Sara Clarke, Linda Fortney, Doug Tobias, Bruce Johnson, Jeff Helm, Jim Clahane, Grace Hanft, Mark Vickrey, Kim Lay, Tamila Lay. Staff: Sara Shaver, Jason Mackey, Jeff Stoner, Valerie Flamini.

Doug Kocher called the meeting to order at 6:30 and offered an opening prayer.

The Council discussed Chapter 3 of the “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” book that we are reading. This chapter focused on passionate worship. The discussion raised many questions, such as: 

Where do we want to be as a church?

How do we use all that we have experienced as a church to look ahead and improve?

How can we dig deeper into relationships and connections?

How do we focus on the commandment to “love God and love others?”

No specific actions were recommended, but a robust conversation took place with many voices being heard from.

The April meeting minutes were presented. Tamila Lay made a motion to approve, and Jim Clahane seconded. 

Committee and program reports had been previously submitted and there were no significant updates.

Jeff Stoner reviewed the Treasurer’s report. He reported he is about $4,000.00 short this month, but he will make it work and will not need to make a withdrawal from endowments.

Updates on 2025 Goals:

There was no further business, and Pastor Sara closed the meeting with prayer at 7:50.

Respectfully submitted,
Valerie Flamini, Church Administrator

Church Council Meeting, July 23, 2024

In attendance: Douglas Kocher, Susan Pigott, Doug Tobias, Bruce Johnson, Ron Soder, Kris Sample, Pat Harry, Jim Clahane, Linda Armstrong, Karen Stimeling, Denise Burkhardt, Chris Durant, Emily Powell, Jeff Helm.  Staff attending: Sara Shaver, Jason Mackey, Valerie Flamini

Doug Kocher called the meeting to order at 6:30.

Jim Clahane offered a brief Food for Thought about trusting as a church and moving forward in that trust.  Doug Kocher followed with thoughts about our need for that same trust in our personal lives and gave an opening prayer.

Bruce Johnson moved to approve the June minutes; Chris Durant seconded the motion.  The minutes were approved.

There were some questions about the finance report but in Jeff Stoner’s absence, we could not fully answer them. There will be a follow-up.  The report was accepted following a motion by Emily Powell and a second by Chris Durant.

SPRC – No activity this month.

Trustees – Bruce Johnson referred everyone to the distributed report. No changes.

Missions – Linda Armstrong noted the success of the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox program, which wraps up this weekend.

Hospitality – Denise Burkhardt reminded the Council of this year’s Trunk or Treat on October 26.

Prayer Team – Continues to meet weekly for group prayer and to pray daily.

2025 Goals Subcommittee – Has not met since the last meeting.  

Debt Reduction Subcommittee continues to meet.

Jen Sarff has resigned as Council Member-at-Large.  A replacement will be sought.

The meeting adjourned at 7:00 following a prayer from Pastor Sara.

Respectfully submitted,

Attending: Doug Kocher, Doug Tobias, Jeff Stoner, Pat Townsend, Kris Sample, Ron Soder, Bruce Johnson, Pat Harry, Linda Fortney, Chris Durant, Karen Stimeling, Don Powell, Denise Burkhardt, Jeff Helm. Guests: Dave Stoll, Jean Stoll, David Brown, Kathy Brown. Staff: Stephen Gallaher, Valerie Flamini.

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm. By Council Chair Doug Kocher.

“Food for Thought” was offered by Jeff Helm regarding the recent Bible study guide “Where We Meet” and specifically referenced passages from Matthew and Jesus’ ministry.

Doug K. then offered an opening prayer.

After a moment to review the March 26th, 2024 minutes, Don Powell moved to accept as offered and seconded by Pat Harry. The minutes were approved with no objections or corrections.

Jeff Stoner then gave a synopsis of the finance report which then lead to several questions;

What is the “Columbarium”?  This was explained as the area for the interment of ashes that is on site.

About benevolence funds. Jeff will break this down to explain further.

About payments made for mission expenses (budget vs. quarterly).

Question regarding the breakdown of hospitality expenses.

Questions regarding channeling of money to facilities vs, other “work teams”. Jeff explained that he is/was aware of projects that will require a quicker cash infusion.

Motion made by Pat Harry and seconded by Doug T. to approve finance report. This was approved as presented.

Bruce Johnson then presented the Trustee report.

We are working to get money back from the elevator repair company for some services that had not been fully provided.

Still receiving bids on paving projects and again emphasized the entry and exit areas as priorities. (Area behind kitchen is particularly rough). Bruce stated that roughly 2/3 of the budgeted funds for the paving project would be spent on  these two areas. Some of the remaining funds may be diverted to new issue regarding the  water system in the office building.

Bruce was asked if there was a protection policy entered into with the water company and it seems as if there is not. Will our insurance policy offer any relief for this issue (being checked into). 

Fire alarm bid continues to progress. Every effort is being made to have this (and other projects) timed so as not to interrupt with ongoing church functions (V.B.S., worship, etc…)

Lights are working again in sanctuary (temporary fix to a more permanent solution). Working toward LED full replacement in a future project.

Question was asked by Pat H. as to the disposition of Maple avenue property…can it be sold and funds used to reduce debt or for maintenance projects. We are currently under a rental agreement with the tenants and really can’t do anything at this point in time.

There was some discussion as to whether or not we delay some of the  projects for now and we agreed that we need to move forward on the more critical issues first (water in office building, paving). Bruce did confirm that the trustees had given the approval for John Eckstine to accept the lowest of the multiple bids for the paving work.

Denise offered highlights from outreach and she mentioned the Camp Hill Memorial Day Parade where we will be having a float featuring our Vacation Bible School which is presenting “SCUBA”

Linda Fortney gave a recap of some of the activities of the church’s women’s groups.

Pat Harry raised a question regarding the announcement this past Sunday of Jason Mackey coming to C.H.U.M. as appointed associate pastor.  What does ¾ time mean, do we have appropriate housing? 

There was some discussion regarding this but not all answers were available. The appointment is effective July 1st, so there is time to discuss further.

Doug K. then gave some thoughts and oversight as to the “Goals Worksheet”

After some discussion regarding what we see as priorities, we agreed that with the absences at this meeting, maybe it would be best to “table” this discussion until the May meeting.

However, there was some starting points that we talked about.

Mainly…

What do we see as our top priorities?

We are pleased that the building is always in use.

Why do people come here?

How do I/we/them/ become engaged?

What do THEY need to become energized and engaged?

There was some discussion about “un-restricted funds” and to some, this is a point of contention.

Stephen then gave a brief thought of what people are looking for when trying to find a church home:

The power of the preaching.

Missions of the church.

Is there an active children’s and youth ministry?

Music ministry.

Is the church friendly?

Pat H. talked about making the things that are happening here more visible (Memorial Day Parade as an example). Would like to get to know youth better through testimonies and involvement in worship.

Chris asked if there could be a youth representative to council?

Closing thoughts;

Bruce J. reminded everyone of the cleanup on Saturday (27th) from 10 until noon.

Stephen was asked to offer a closing prayer after which the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Doug Tobias, Vice Chair.

Church Council Members: David Brown, Ann Holler, Mark Vickrey, Jen Sarff, Pat Townsend, Pat Harry, Kris Sample, Karen Stimeling, Linda Armstrong, Carol Pettis, Linda Fortney, Ron Soder, Bruce Johnson, Kyle Evans, Kim Bedford

Pastors and Staff: Pastor Sara Shaver, Hayden Benner, Georgia Reisinger

Guests: Dave and Jean Stoll, Kathy Brown, John Ensign, Susan Pigott, Galen Kapp, Lorin Stough

CALL TO ORDER: David Brown, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM and opened with Scripture from Ecclesiastes. It was noted the minutes from the May 23, 2023, meeting were approved via email.

TRUSTEES: Bruce Johnson reported on the following issues under discussion:

Eric Saunders, Executive Director of New Hope Ministries, attended our meeting to clarify and answer questions concerning this project. He spoke of the New Hope Ministries (NHM) mission in Camp Hill, and of the Earl Besch partnership, how it started and how it evolved. NHM operates 9 food ministries in the area, to include Lemoyne, New Cumberland and Mechanicsburg. It takes $300,000/yr. to operate a facility, and NHM is unable to service every small community. Eric is in favor of serving all those in need, not just those who live within certain boundaries. Currently, NHM visits most sites once a month while some are two visits per month.  Camp Hill UMC is the only one with four visits per month. He explained that NHM is in support of the children of the community to provide foods and services, but expressed his view that the CHUM garage facility is inadequate, parking is limited, unloading is difficult because of the location, it’s in a congested area, and a lot of money is involved. His question was, “How do we serve the people of the community going forward?” Having a single point of contact for the church would be helpful.

David Brown recommended we designate a person by the next meeting.

FINANCE: Kyle Evans presented the current church financial snapshot.

SPRC: Kim Bedford highlighted June as a month of celebrations and farewells. The committee is working on:

OLD/NEW BUSINESS: There was nothing to report in this area.

CLOSING: Pastor Sara spoke of her moving, starting the job, and that GPS is her best friend. She closed us with prayer.

Kim Bedford made the motion for adjournment; Bruce Johnson seconded it. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Kris Sample, acting secretary for Nancy LeRoy

Church Council Members: David Brown, Andre Faranov, Nancy LeRoy, Kathy Keiser, Kyle Evans, Bruce Johnson, Jon Seltenheim, Ann Holler, Karen Stimeling, Pat Harry, Denise Burkhardt, Pat Townsend, Linda Armstrong, Caroly Pettis, Kris Sample, Ron Soder, Doug Kocher, Jenn Sarff, Mary Anne Rech, Linda Fortney

Pastors and Staff: Pastor Bob, Pastor Anna, Georgia Reisinger, Bill UmbergerGuests: Jean and David Stoll, Kathy Brown

CALL TO ORDER:  David Brown, Chair called the meeting to order

OPENING PRAYER:  Pastor Anna led the group in a guided meditation as the opening prayer.  She also spoke of her 7 years at CHUM, her plans to live in Carlisle (leaving the Parsonage on July 5th), her new part time appointment at Grace of Harrisburg as lead Pastor and her plans to develop Yoga Chapel International with Kristin Mooney.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  David Brown clarified that the procedure that we follow after each meeting means that the minutes have already been approved via email and no further action is required at Council meetings.

FINANCE:  Kyle Evans reported that April income was $123,488 compared to last year which was $107,018.  Year to date income is $465,000 compared to $484,000 last year.  Additionally we are spending less than we a bringing in, however, we have $128,000 of accumulated unpaid obligations mostly in the unpaid shares of ministry to the Conference and payments on our debt.  Our current debt is $755,000 which is due in 5 years.  He talked about selling the Maple Ave Parsonage as we no longer will need it.  The proceeds of the sale could be used to pay down the debt depending on the restrictions placed on the church by the conference.

TRUSTEES:  Bruce Johnson reported on the following issues under discussion:

1.  A letter has been sent to the Conference requesting that the church be allowed to sell the Maple Ave Parsonage.  The Conference holds the deed in trust and we need their permission to sell.  The Trustees  are waiting on an answer to their request. 

2.  Clean up day was recently held with 26 people showing up.  Rick Sample was complemented on organizing the event and Georgia Reisinger for getting the word out.  The day was considered a success.

3.  One of the 2 A/C Chillers is not functioning.  It will be repaired at a cost of $37,000.  Money has been shifted within the endowment fund to a more liquid account to be able to pay for the repairs when needed.

4.  During a recent heavy rain there were roof leaks, however, it appears they were not severe.

5.  Some of the lighting in the Sanctuary is being investigated due to some flickering.  Conversion to LED lighting is being investigated.

6.  Earl Besch – Bruce is now CHUM Representative to the Earl Besch project group with Pastor Anna no longer involved due to her new assignment.  Linda Armstrong will now assist.

SPRC:  Jon Seltenheim gave the report due to Kim Bedford’s absence.  

1.  The SPRC had a very thorough interview with Pastor Jenny regarding her job and praised her for the detail she gave to them about everything she has been doing.

2.  June will be a month of departures and celebrations as follows; Keith Roden June 4th; Pastor Anna June 11th, Pastor Bob and Pastor Jenny June 18th.  And Pastor Sara will preach her first Sunday on June 25th.

3.  Sandy Zirbel is coordinating meet and greet meetings for Pastor Sara.  The congregation is being encouraged to give gift cards to their favorite restaurants in the area that can be given to Pastor Sara to familiarize her with the area and welcome her.

4.  There is an On Boarding Session being planned for July 11 to include Church Council and Pastor Sara to welcome her and get acquainted.

5.  Resumes are being reviewed for Keith Roden’s position

6.  The SPRC is working on various job descriptions

Pastor Bob reported that pastor Sara will arrive on June 23rd, preach on June 25th, settle in the following week and possibly attend staff and clergy meeting and Church Council on the 27th.

LAY LEADER:  Kathy Keiser had no report but wanted to hear a report from those who attended Annual Conference.  Pastor Anna reported that Ron Soder would report at the 9:30 Celebration service, Galen Kapp at the 9:30 New Life service and Peg Marshall at the 11:00 New Life Service next Sunday.  She reported that Marsh Curry-Nixon was part of the worship team and head teller, that Margaret Brightbill attended representing United Women in Faith and George Barto and Tim Baer attended as a retired clergy.  She also reported that 141 churches disaffiliated out of the original 870 church’s in the Susquehanna Conference.  She indicated that there were no disputes and the procedure was done respectfully.

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY:  Karen Stimeling had no reported

MISSIONS:  Linda Armstrong reported that she is the temporary Family Promise Coordinator and we are hosting the week of Sunday the 28th.  There is a proposed mission trip to Mexico being discussed; Sandy Zirbel organized a fundraiser for Mission Central where over $1,000 was raised.  And the Grandpa Bubbles event was a success.

CONGREGATIONAL CARE:  Nancy LeRoy reported on the excellent job that Pastor Jenny has done to re- energize the Congregational Care in our church especially to the 60 plus shut ins with the Communion Shepherds Events in Dec and April.  Nancy passed around 3 draft copies of a brochure that Pastor Jenny just finished today listing how we provide care at CHUM and the various community resources that are available when we are not able to provide something specific.  

PRAYER TEAM:  Caroyl Pettis reported that the prayer team meets every Sunday morning before services to pray.

HOSPITALITY:   Denise Burkhardt reported on the upcoming Outdoor Movie Night scheduled for July 8th starting at 5:30 with the movie beginning at 7:00.  There will be games/food/crafts with participation by Salt ‘n Light and the Mission Team.  Denise also reported that a prayer will be left in every room of the parsonage when Pastor Sara moves in.

UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH:  Linda Fortney reported that Margaret Brightbill was their representative at the recent Annual Conference.  They are encouraging young women in the church to become part of United Women in Faith.  Linda went on to mention a wide variety of activities that are happening in the Hannah Circle with a strong emphasis on care for each other.  She mentioned the Hannah Trail project where members reach out to a wide variety of “care” needs.  Additionally, the Sunshine Basket Ministry has given baskets to approximately 40 people over the course of the last year with Linda, Nancy Stranger and Jack Sellers participating.  It was suggested that this ministry fits more closely with Congregational Care and maybe it should be taken over by Congregational Care in the future.

MEN’S FELLOWSHIP:  Doug Kocher thanked Jon Seltenheim for his support of the recent Men’s Retreat.  

OLD/NEW BUSINESS:  There was nothing to report in this area.

1.  Kris Sample referred back to the clean up project that was just completed and suggested that in the future it might be a good idea to organize families to clean the Sanctuary as part of their service work. She said this would not be a replacement for the paid cleaning service but in addition to it.  She suggested a schedule of rotating with several families periodically.

2.  Jon Seltenheim mentioned the security study that was conducted several years ago.  He said it needed to be “dusted off and looked at again”.  Bruce Johnson said that the Trustees had also been discussing the need for security.

3.  Ann Holler is in charge of tracking the Safe Sanctuary requirements.  Kathy Keiser said she has been and is willing to continue notarizing the required affidavits without charge.

4.  Pastor Bob praised the Church Council for the growth that he has seen in the Council as we changed the form of governance. He complimented all of the administrative committees for the work they have been doing and said he believes we are on the right track.

CLOSING:  David Brown asked Pastor Bob and Pastor Anna to come to the middle of the room and asked the Council members to lay hands on them.  Prayers and blessings were offered to both of them as this was their last Church Council Meeting.  

With that closing the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Nancy P. LeRoy, Church Council Secretary

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS ATTENDING: David Brown, Nancy LeRoy, Kathy Keiser, Ann Holler, Brian Miller, Mary Anne Rech, Jen Sarff, Pat Townsend, Jim Clahane, Pat Harry, Kris Sample, Kim Bedford, Jean Stoll (for Bruce Johnson), Kyle Evans, Karen Stimeling, Linda Armstrong, Denise Burkhardt, Doug Kocher, Ron Soder.  The signatures of all of the voting members are included in these minutes.

Additionally, the following pastors were present: Pastor Bob, Pastor Anna, Pastor Stephen, and Pastor Jack plus Georgia Reisinger.

ALSO: Galen Kapp, Jean and David Stoll, Ann Huff, Destiny Simpson, Kim Rogusky, Susan Thomas, Nancy Reitzel, Jack Sellers, Kathy Brown, Ed Rech, Bill Umberger, Jon Seltenheim, Marlyn Diehl, Sabrina Jutzi, and Lorin Stough.

David Brown called the meeting to order.  Pastor Stephen read from scripture and then commented that “we all have responsibilities as representatives of Jesus Christ”.  

YOUTH AUCTION:  Pastor Stephen reported on the success of the recent Youth Auction.  There were 265 items beautifully displayed and the amount raised is approaching $13,000.  David Birmingham did a wonderful job as an auctioneer.  

MINUTES:  Pat Townsend moved and Linda Armstrong seconded approval of the minutes.

FINANCE:  Kyle Evans reported that the income as of March 31 was $342,000 as compared with the same period last year of $377,000.  Expenses have been $320,000 to date.  He also noted that there are approximately $119,000 in shares of ministry and loan payments that have not been paid.

A small committee of John Ensign, Rod Hite, David Stoll, and Bill Umberger, Treasurer have spent time meeting with Pastors and staff and have cut expenses in the budget of approximately $230,000 resulting in a revised budget of $1,462,616 which the finance committee has recommended to be approved.  Jim Clahane asked a question about the sale of the parsonages which Bill Umberger and Lorin Stough addressed.  Lorin said that the sale of the parsonages will be under discussion in the future as they are vacated.

Kathy Keiser moved and Jim Clahane seconded that we approve the revised budget as presented by the Finance Committee.

Pastor Anna suggested that the Salt ‘n Light budget be restored to its full $25,000 – the revised budget had a figure of $20,000 to be distributed in quarterly payments of $5,000.  Kyle Evans and Pastor Stephen spoke about the reasonableness of the suggested revision approved by the Finance Committee.  A discussion was held with comments from Denise Burkhardt, Georgia Reisinger, Marlyn Diehl, and Nancy Reitzel all agreeing with Pastor Anna on the importance of this program and keeping the original $25,000.  Jon Seltenheim suggested that the first quarter payment could be more heavily front-loaded as there is more of a need in the summer months.  

The motion to approve the revised budget passed with the added suggestion that Jon Seltenheim’s suggestion be considered by the Finance Committee.

TRUSTEES:  In Bruce Johnson’s absence Lorin Stough gave a brief report on the most recent Trustees meeting.  He reported that the Earl Besch project move away from the renovation of the Potter House garage and use the mobile unit.  He said the issue was being referred to the Finance Team for their input on the financial ramification of moving forward.  He also reported that the sale of the parsonages was on hold for now.  Pastor Anna asked to table the discussion on the Earl Besch project until Bruce Johnson could be present.  Bill Umberger spoke to clarify the question of who would be responsible for overages if the project were to move forward.  David Brown tabled the discussion.

SPRC:  Kim Bedford reported on the ongoing work of realigning staff positions in light of staff changes.  She mentioned that there are about 20 job descriptions.  Kim Rogusky is heading a sub-committee on communications and various changes coming in the next few months.   The Director of Sanctuary Music and Adult Handbell Choir Director position, currently held by Keith Roden, has been advertised as Keith is retiring this year.  Kim asked that Council members spread the word if we know of anyone who might be interested.

LAY LEADER:  Kathy Keiser had nothing specific to report.

MINISTRY TEAMS:  Linda Armstrong reported on a very successful March Mission Madness; Nancy LeRoy reported on the recent Communion Event to our shut-ins; Denise Burkhardt asked for anyone who might be interested in a task force on building safety – Ed Rech talked about this being very important to him and his connections with various people who might be helpful in creating a safety program – however, our current financial situation means there is no money to do this project adequately.

GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Pat Harry asked about our plans for telling our congregation what is happening regarding disaffiliation.  Kathy Keiser said that she had gathered a lot of information but was not sure of how to distribute it.  David Brown asked if Pastor Bob might get Kathy and our Communication Director Brigid Lowe involved to discuss possibilities.  

Kim Rogusky recognized Kim Bedford for the recent work of the SPRC.  

Pastor Bob gave a closing prayer.  Kyle Evans moved and Linda Armstrong seconded a motion to adjourn. 

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy P. LeRoy, Church Council Secretary

ATTENDING: Mary Anne Rech, Ron Soder, Pat Townsend, Karen Stimeling, Bruce Johnson, Ann Holler, Linda Armstrong, Jennifer Sarff, Kathy Keiser, Andre Faranov, David Brown, Denise Burkhardt, Linda Fortney, Doug Kocher,  Caroyl Pettis, Kris Sample, Pat Harry, Kim Bedford, Kyle Evans and Nancy LeRoy – the Pastors in attendance were Pastor Bob, Pastor Anna, and Pastor Stephen.  Additionally Georgia Reisinger, Church Administrator.

ABSENT: Brian Miller, Jim Clahane, and Mark Vickery

GUESTS: Bill Umberger, Jean and David Stoll, and Galen Kapp

OPENING: David Brown, Chair of the Church Council called the meeting to order with a scripture reading from Revelations.  He reflected back on the ULC and commented that they had a mission, goals, and objectives.  He announced that he is going to form a task force to work on a new vision for the church so we all know where we are headed.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Linda Armstrong moved and Ann Holler seconded acceptance of the minutes.  The motion passed.

FINANCIAL:  Kyle Evans reported that as of the end of February, we have taken in $217,941 this year as opposed to $240,579 last year at the same time.  Currently, we are $70,000 under budget however we have not paid 3 months of shares of ministry, loan/interest payments, and benevolences amounting to $102,000.  

1. He reported that a small committee has been formed to meet with ministers, staff and others to recommend savings that can be realized to bring the budget more in line with our current income.

2. He also reported that there has been a Finance Stewardship Awareness Team formed to:

-Make the congregation more aware of the church’s needs

-The Finance Committee will continue to meet in between services to hear from congregation members regarding the budget

-There will be Stewardship Awareness Moments which will be reports to the congregation regarding programs in the church

TRUSTEES:  Bruce Johnson talked about how they look at maintenance and repair issues and prioritize them to save money.  He also mentioned that they have heard from a contractor about a solar system.  Bruce presented 2 recommendations from the Trustees.

1.  Bruce reported that the Trustees had voted to withdraw from the agreement to move forward with the construction in the garage of the Potter House to be the New Hope/Earl Besch food distribution center for Camp Hill families.   A very lengthy discussion followed:  The following questions were asked.  Why are we pulling out?  What did the Trustees base their decision on?  What was the vote of the Trustees?  Is this food pantry only open to Camp Hill residents?  Was the Mission Team included in the original discussions when the project was begun?  Many comments were made including but not limited to:  We made an agreement and we need to honor it.  The mobile unit is serving well right now.  $70,000 is a lot of money to spend to renovate a garage and not one drop of food has been distributed.

Pastor Anna spoke at length to the issue and in her own words the following is what she wanted inserted into the minutes.  Pastor Anna responded to questions regarding the development of the Earl Besch Food Pantry and the partnership that was established in 2021 between the Camp Hill United Methodist Church, the Camp Hill School District, the Lion Foundation, and New Hope Ministries to carry on the long term work of church and community members to address food insecurity in the community.  She shared about the opportunity of this partnership for the church to build relationships with the community in our role of serving others and making disciples.   She shared information, which is attached, on the designated funding that was secured for the renovation of the Potter's House garage to house the Earl Besch Food Pantry for a 5-year-long initial agreement. The handout also includes information on the past month's unfolding decisions and recommendations regarding the renovation of the garage to be used as pantry space.  Denise Burkhardt wanted to remind everyone that there was a comment made that the Lion Foundation would pick up any cost overruns on the costs of renovations to the Potter House garage.  

David Brown asked Bruce Johnson if he felt the Trustees voted with the full knowledge of all of the thoughts and feelings that ran deep about this project.  Bruce stated that he believed that the Trustees had voted with the full knowledge of the project but maybe not the full emotional impact of it.  David asked Bruce if he would go back to the Trustees and Bruce indicated that he needed a vote from the Church Council.  Bruce moved that the Council recommend approval of the Trustees recommendation.  The motion was seconded by Doug Kocher.  It was explained that CHUM would be responsible for absorbing any cost overruns, change orders etc if the contract with the contractor ran over the contracted price.  A roll call vote was called.  The vote was 11 voted not to approve, 5 voted to approve and 3 voted to abstain.  The result of the vote means that the Earl Besch project will move forward and the Potter House garage will be converted to a food pantry.

2.  In Bruce’s words the following is what he wanted inserted into the minutes which he has described as the intent and justifications cited for the proposal that were conveyed during the discussion.  The second item that Bruce presented was a proposal to initiate communication with the Conference to request permission to sell one or both parsonages and transition to a housing allowance model for pastors. Ideally, such transition occurs during the re-appointment process when pastors are moving out of current parsonages. This could facilitate paying down a significant portion of our mortgage principal with the sale proceeds, saving the associated interest, and other costs undertaken by the church to retain and maintain parsonages. Additionally, a housing allowance compensation package would afford pastors more housing options, with the potential to build equity. Several people spoke to the timing in the process since we have a new Pastor who has been assigned, and she has already seen the parsonage. Kim Bedford as SPRC Chair said that the SPRC committee was against the recommendation.  He also read from a relevant portion of the BOD.  Additionally, he suggested that the attached draft letter be included with the minutes.  It should be noted that the letter was not distributed before the meeting or at the meeting but has been added to the minutes for everyone reading the minutes to understand the intent of the sale of the parsonages. 

Jenn Sarff moved and Kathy Keiser seconded a motion to wait until the new Pastor arrives and have a conversation with her then.  If she agrees then the letter can be sent to the Conference.  A vote was called and the motion carried.

SPRC:  Kim Bedford reported that the committee is working on realignments in the staffing and celebrations for the new Pastor and those leaving.  She also make a couple of comments about the new Pastor who had been in Camp Hill last Wednesday to meet with the SPRC and see the church and parsonage.  Ron Soder suggested that a mass mailing might be in order to tell our congregation about their new Pastor once we have a good bio on her.  Kim said she would work with Brigid Lowe to see the possibilities for getting that information out.

Linda Armstrong asked for the floor to make a short comment. She said that for about 2 years the Mission and Outreach Team had been unsupported including being left out of the budget process.  In spite of the lack of support, Missions and Outreach work continued as best as the team could without support. David Brown thanked her for her courage in making the statement.

Jenn Sarff reported on a small group that David Brown had formed to talk about the issues surrounding all of the people we have lost, how to best connect with those who are here and those who left.  The focus is on it being a new day with a new Pastor, and an opportunity to go deeper in our connections.  Pastor Stephen as well is a part of the small group.

Due to the lateness of the hour, David Brown asked that we forgo Ministry reports and he was not aware of any pressing new or old business that needed attention.  With that Bruce Johnson moved and Ron Soder seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned.  

Respectfully submitted

Nancy P. LeRoy, Secretary

ATTENDING: David Brown, Andre Faranov, Kathy Keiser, Ann Holler, Brian Miller, Mark Vickrey, Jen Sarff, Pat Townsend, Jim Clahane, Kyle Evans, Bruce Johnson, Kim Bedford, Karen Stimeling, Linda Armstrong, Denise Burkhardt, Linda Fortney, Doug Kocher, Sara Bupp, Ron Soder and Nancy LeRoy, Pastor Bob, Pastor Anna, Pastor Stephen, Pastor Jack, Georgia Reisinger, Bill Umberger, Nancy Reitzel,  

ABSENT: Mary Ann Rech, Pat Harry, Kris Sample, Caroyl Pettis

GUESTS: Marlyn Diehl, Carl Hutchinson, Susan Pigott, Rev Marlin and Brenda Snider, David, and Jean Stoll

 OPENING:  David Brown opened the meeting by thanking everyone for their prayers during his recent health issues.  He spoke of exposing the “elephant in the living room” at the last meeting, his daughter, and wondering what is next.  Additionally, he reflected on all of the people who have left since he began attending here.  He spoke of division in the church and the need for all of us to behave in a loving way.  

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Jim Clahane moved and Kyle Evans seconded the approval of the minutes from the January 31 meeting.

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT:  Kyle Evans reported that the audit was completed by him and Jeff Stoner reconciling to the monthly reports and bank statements.  He thanked the Finance team and Bill Umberger, Treasurer for all of their work. There is projected to be an approximately $300,000 shortfall in the income vs the budget for this year with the January income numbers approximately $25,000 below income.  The Finance Committee has created a small committee to look at the budget line by line to assess where savings might happen.  The fundraising campaign that had been planned for this Spring has been postponed until Labor Day when the new minister will be present.  Members of the Finance Committee will be meeting in the Fireside Room between services starting March 12th to hear from congregation members regarding finances.  It was also noted that pledges this year were up  17% from last year, however, fewer people signed pledge cards.  

Jen Sarff asked if we were tracking membership decrease with financial decrease and also asked who might be leading a group to market to new members and former members who have left.  In a conversation that followed Denise Burkhardt reported on the history of giving units as follows:

2019 – 622;  2020 – 538;  2021 – 440;  2022 – 424 – a noticeable decline over the 4 year period.  Sara Bupp said that she had noticed that there was no prompt for giving online to those who watch online.

Pastor Anna thanked Sara for this awareness, as there used to be a prompt, and we need to ensure that it returns to the live stream.

Comments were made by Jen Sarff, Jim Clahane, and Linda Fortney, with a variety of ideas on attracting new members as well as calling those who have left and inviting them to return.  Denise Burkhardt mentioned that as Chair of Hospitality, she sends cards to people after Sunday services. Brian Miller suggested sending a mass mailing announcing the new minister's appointment.

TRUSTEES REPORT:  Bruce Johnson reported that the Trustees are making sure that they prioritize projects and that they spend money appropriately.   He asked for approval of a 3-year contract with “Kidz Kamp” to use the church facility.  Nancy Reitzel gave a passionate report of the approximate 30 years' history of the program and Marlyn Diehl’s involvement for the majority of that time.  The motion to approve a 3 yr contract was approved with a unanimous round of applause. (See Footnote below for an explanation of Kidz Kamp furnished by Marlyn Diehl after the meeting.)

SPRC: Kim Bedford thanked Caroyl Pettis and the Prayer Team for the Prayer service they conducted last Sunday to pray for the new minister's appointment and all those people making the decisions. She reported that Hayden Benner was being hired for 10-12 weeks as a Ministry Intern and the Pote Endowment Fund would be funding the expense.  Additionally, she reported that Sarah Nagengast is currently serving as Director of Student Ministries in a part-time capacity while she finishes her studies at Messiah University. When Sarah graduates in June she will be moved to full-time status.

LAY LEADER:  Kathy Keiser reported that she had been on a personal retreat over the past weekend.  She spent time reading, reflecting, and attending a small church in the area she was visiting.  During this time she read and was impressed by a quote from John Wesley  - “unite people as one body”.  She also reported that she had spent time reviewing information that had been sent to her by others regarding how to “educate” the congregation regarding the issues happening in the UMC denomination.

MINISTRY AND PROGRAM CHAIRS:

1. Membership Chair - Karen Stimeling – Reported that it is a quiet time in her program year

2. Missions Chair – Linda Armstrong – Furnished a written report and also mentioned Family Promise, the upcoming March Missions Madness Event and the Panguma trip

3. Congregational Care Chair – Nancy LeRoy – Furnished a written report and also mentioned the Easter Communion Event being planned

4. Prayer Team Chair – Caroyl Pettis -  In Caroyl’s absence the SPRC Prayer Event was again mentioned

5. Hospitality Chair – Denise Burkhardt – Furnished a written report and also mentioned that July 14 will be the date of the family movie night.  She also talked about what is the vision for the church now that the congregation is more active in guiding the church

6.  United Women in Faith Chair – Linda Fortney – Reported on the very successful College Cookie mailing with 72 boxes being assembled and 44 of those delivered to Messiah University.  She also mentioned that the women’s circles are now meeting again after the long Covid shutdown and renewing the importance of fellowship and connection.

7.  United Methodist Men Chair – Doug Kocher with Jack Grove reporting on the upcoming men’s 1 day retreat.

OLD BUSINESS:  Pastor Anna presented the following recommendation to be approved.

“All committee minutes are to be sent by email to the committee members within 3 days of the meeting date.  So, in other words, if the meeting happens on a Tuesday, the minutes must be emailed to the committee for approval by Friday.  The committee would then have Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to approve them for them to be posted online on Monday.  If people do not email a response that they approve, do not approve, or have amendments to the minutes, their response will be considered to be affirmative.”

Denise Burkhardt moved and Kathy Keiser seconded and the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:  There was none

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Bill Umberger spoke about all of the great things that are happening at CHUM and suggested that what is needed is a Marketing Plan.  

David Brown thanked everyone for their participation and Pastor Bob closed the meeting with prayer.

The meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Nancy P. LeRoy, Church Council Secretary

FOOTNOTE:  The following is background information on Kidz Kamp furnished by Marlyn Diehl after the meeting for those who may not know what it is:  

“CACCC, Inc. (Churches Affiliated Child Care Center, Inc.) was opened in 1988 by a group of churches who saw the need for childcare and saw it as an outreach to the community. Pastor Tom Springman was instrumental in founding CACCC and having it housed at CHUM. The summer camp began around 1998, I believe, after serving the school district for a few years with before and after school care. I (Marlyn) started in 2000. CACCC moved to their new location in 2018 (I think) at 44 S 38th Street in Camp Hill.”