Dave Kaynor
Administrative Pastor
Q: What do you mean by surplus funds?
A: Each year, our teams put together a budget based on what they predict both giving and spending will be. Most years, giving outweighs spending, thus creating a surplus. The 2020 surplus was $377,000 and we invested that on the parking lot, church planting, Care Net plus a variety of mission projects. The 2021 surplus is $163,000.
Q: Where did this kitchen idea come from?
A: Several years ago when we were working through the 2020 Vision, Bob threw out the idea that we build a new kitchen. In talking with a bunch of kitchen people over the last year, a kitchen remodel seemed to make better sense based on our building layout and quantity of times the kitchen is used.
Q: Who is making the decisions about the kitchen?
A: A kitchen committee was formed last year representing a variety of groups that use the kitchen. The committee has met multiple times and has been researching/comparison shopping in order to make good decisions when the time comes. We will continue to operate that way until any and all of the work is complete.
Q: What will be updated in the kitchen?
A: We would like to buy new stoves, extend the island, install a designated dish washing station (separate from two new deep food prep sinks), redo the cabinets, and hook up a new short-cycle dishwasher. New countertops and a handwashing sink are also in the works. Finally, the kitchen will be repainted and a few appliances shifted around.
Q: What is meant by, "up to $75,000"?
A: Our kitchen committee has been actively working on bids and quotes for the project for the last two months. However, the costs change at times and pinning down exactly what we need is difficult. We are asking for "up to $75,000" because we are confident we can do it for less but don’t know exactly what it will cost.
Q: When would the remodel begin?
A: We have created a timeline that includes free things that have already begun. Once (and if) the motion is approved, we will spend February and March buying the equipment and lining up installers. Installation is planned for April through June, so events that use the kitchen during those times will need to be changed or eliminated.
Q: What do I do if my event depends on the kitchen?
A: We will have to think creatively about food use. Perhaps the food could be catered, or minimized for this year. There is no cookie-cutter solution, and each event will be determined on a case by case basis. We will not be booking any non-church events for the kitchen from April through June.
Q: Who is doing the work?
A: The work is being done by a variety of volunteers. We will have to hire out some of the work, but most of it will be done in-house.
Q: Why should I vote in favor of the motion?
A: First, we have extra money available for this. It will not affect our bottom line for 2022. Second, remodeling the kitchen would be a great encouragement to those that serve faithfully in the kitchen. It’s been more than 25 years since we remodeled! Third, and most important, our kitchen impacts our ministry to people. Having an updated kitchen supports ministry, which is our ultimate goal.