Members in Attendance: Mary Alice Smith, Linda Beall, Piper Padillia, Barbara Nowicki, Sally Hanchett, Tom Beall, David Banister, Peter Schoenbucher, Miki Ohlsen. Also present Rev. Amy Bowden Freedman.

Minutes: The minutes of the board meeting for March were approved with one correction: Structure North recommended temporary measures to stabilize the pinnacle and front gable of the sanctuary plus the creation of a temporary structure to protect the bells in the steeple from falling bricks.

Focus on the Big Picture: The board reviewed the goals for the year and discussed ideas for disseminating the reports for the steeple and capital needs assessment. A new committee will be formed to develop a plan on how to make decisions with the congregation.

President’s Report: Mary Alice updated the board on the fire code issues. Attorney Turner Scott has been retained and is investigating what has to be done to comply with the Fire Marshal’s specifications. The Annual Meeting will be held on May 19, at 6:30. The format will be a dessert forum for the congregation to receive and vote on the slate of officers, the proposed budget and the ordination of Wendy Jones.

Minister’s Report: Amy updated the board on the Cabin Fever Book Sale, reported on the excellent adventure she and Alison had with the youth group in Boston, announced the date for this year’s Crop Walk and important conference opportunities.
Stewardship Report: Tom Beall gave an account of the canvass, the events held and lessons learned. It will be important for future canvass chairs to have some administrative support, as the canvass requires about 20 hours per week in its most intense phase.

Personnel Report: Miki presented a comparison of Aquidneck Island music director salaries to be considered when making budget decisions regarding compensation.
Treasurer’s Report: Peter has been working on four key insurance issues and will have a formal response to the agency by April 30th.
Regarding procedures for collecting background checks Peter made this motion:

VOTE: The board asks the Director of Religious Education to administer a criminal background check policy for anyone working with children in accordance with insurance company requirements.

Barbara Nowicki seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

The budget was discussed and reviewed.

Other Business: There was no other business reported.

Adjournment: Tom Beall made the motion to adjourn the meeting, Barbara Nowicki seconded, and the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Piper Padillia, Clerk