Conditions Report for Hamline Church
Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants. $5,250,000 the first year and $5,250,000 the second year are for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional, or other historical or cultural organizations; or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources.
This year has been one of major transition for the congregation, which has disrupted our original timetable. Our Senior Pastor went on short term disability leave from August 2013-October 2013, just as our newly ordained associate arrived. In November 2013, the Senior Pastor resigned from his position at the Church and went on long-term disability. In addition, our office manager left in mid-March, and it took a month to replace her.
However, the short-term goal of obtaining a written report and discussion with the trustees was met. Further meetings with the finance committee and the Church Council were by necessity postponed, though the intent of continually reassessing the already existing preservation plans already underway (including sealing the structure for water damage) was proposed and agreed to by the Trustees. The front steps and sidewalk were repaired in May 2014.
The Conditions Assessment, the energy audit performed in spring of 2014 and our plans for participation in local training to be provided by Partners in Sacred Places (postponed from May) were discussed with the Church Council. A meeting to review the recommendations with the both lay and clergy members of church leadership will be held in September. With that feedback, we intend to establish a plan to begin implementation and identify sources for the needed funds.