April 13, 2016
Bill Funke, Laurie Ullman, Mark Sisson, Donya Vanburen, Irene Stewart, Suzette Reiss, Kimberly Debus, Dan Durett, Peter Young
Excused: Aiyoung Choi
Meeting called to order by 7:06pm.
Opening words by Kimberly from Nancy Schaffer’s Instructions in Joy
Laurie Ullman reported on her meeting with Damon Rallis, member of the Southold Town Building Department. Unfortunately, Mr. Rallis is unable to attend Building Team meetings, as it could be construed as a conflict of interest. He did say that if we were to change the curb cuts for the parking lot that we would need to get approval from the New York State Department of Transportation. He also stated that we would need to contact Scott Russell if we decided to pursue a bus shelter. Mark noted that we probably could not have a shelter on church property, as it would open the church to liability. Shelters need to be within the “right-of-way” of roadways, in Southold town, a distance of 35’ from the center of the road.
Suzette presented a letter from Stacey Bishop, dated March 24, 2015, where Ms. Bishop offered her services as contractor at cost, i.e., “…whatever the factory invoice is.” The Team decided to include this letter in our records. (Editor’s Note: this, and other documents, will be uploaded at a future date-6-13-2016)
Peter had blueprints from NE Custom Modular Construction that featured a balcony in the sanctuary, which the Team discussed. Sherry noted that plans featuring reversing the sanctuary have not been presented yet. Peter will pass along this idea to Stacey. Sherry also presented drawings from members of the congregation that the Team will keep in mind when finalizing our design. Kimberly commented that our design should account for growth in the congregation, a charge to Kimberly as our new minister from the congregation. The Team asked Peter to ask NE Custom Modular Construction to supply a sample contract. When next we meet with Stacey, questions raised in emails from Susan Pond and Aiyoung Choi should be addressed by her. These emails have been copied into our records. (see note above)
The Team had a discussion on what is actually covered by our insurance policy. No one on the Team had real knowledge of that subject, so it was decided that the Team will meet with a representative of our insurance company to determine what will be covered.
Sherry commented that there is often confusion about how responsibilities are delegated to the Board of Trustees and the Building Team. The Team feels we must communicate with the Board more efficiently. It was decided the notes from our meetings can be given to the Board of Trustees. Attendance by the Team at Board meetings was also encouraged.
The Team had some discussion about whether the congregation should vote to accept a contractor. It was decided that this will be determined when, and if, it arises. Mark will email the contact from the Brunswick UU congregation for guidance, or precedent.
Peter noted that “building season” is approaching and that NE Modular may become busy if we don’t make a final decision soon. The Team agreed and committed to working with all possible speed.
Laurie will address the congregation on April 17.
Our next meeting will be April 20 at 7:00 in the trailer. Suzette will continue as chair. Mark has asked to be excused from that meeting. A recorder will be set up for notes. It was suggested that the Team meet at least on May 4 and 18. There was some discussion about meeting once a week, especially when particular design facets are needed (e.g., paint color, light fixtures, etc.)
Meeting adjourned at 8:56pm.