The Downtown Presbyterian Church

2003 Property Report

PROPERTY COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT

Committee Members:   Kevin Haw, David Harkness, Jim Hoobler, Chuck Pfaff, Tom Wills

Many wonderful things have occurred this past year in relation to the building.   I have been privileged to been able to work on the committee with many fine individuals.   In review, we have been able to achieve cost reductions in some areas and hope in 2004 more will occur.

After many long conversations with Lee Company, who we have had an annual contract with for many years to maintain our existing A/C units, they have agreed not to increase our bills. They attempted to increase the maintenance contract dramatically but we were able to talk them in to maintaining the same amount for 2003.   However, we did discuss and agree to rate increases In 2004. This must be taken into consideration in the upcoming year.    Also, we can expect Gas bills and electric bills to rise.    How much these increases will be is not available at this time as we are currently undergoing an evaluation by Tennessee Valley Authority for solutions for these problems of increase cost. The results of the studies are due in the 1st quarter of 2004. At that time we will have a better idea of what to expect and possible measures that may be taken to solve some of these problems.

The property committee made many cuts and delayed many possible improvements to the building in order to save money in the fiscal year 2003. Some of these issues are sure to come up in the 2004   There has been much warranted discussion regarding and interest in significant improvements to the front of the building which is in need of various repairs ie. paint, possible cement and brick work, potential deterioration of wood and other needed repairs in order that the building does not deteriorate any further.    We would also like to make the building more attractive and inviting from the front to attract more interest and attendance for new members and visitors.

The kitchen area is a concern and needs upgrades in various areas. We recently replaced the 20 year old dishwashers motor instead of conducting preventative maintenance which could avoid costly repairs and replacements due to emergency breakdowns.

In 2003, we were able to save much money while maintaining the integrity of the building with some nice additions.    Again, we would expect the building committee will have some tough financial decisions regarding some possible increase expenditures in the upcoming year.

Anticipated costs of such improvements have been figured to be about $30,000 ($5000 cement work, $4000 brick work, $10,000 for painting & brick work, 15% increase across the board on utilities ie.gas, electric and Lee Co.) Various other improvements include putting Ken Locke’s name on the outside wall, this needs to be done.

I feel blessed as an individual and a church elder to have been able to participate with help of many others in this rewarding service.    Thank you all for your comments, solutions and ideas in the past and the future.

Many Blessings and your servant in God,

Kevin Haw