Dear Parishioners,
Happy New Year! 2010 brought many challenges to our Parish, and you, as the Parish family, came together to help meet those challenges; adults and children alike! We began the year with the need to repair the Church roof due to storm damage. After closer examination, it was decided to replace the entire roof, as it was close to 25 years old. The exterior was also in need of repair and paint. The estimate to replace the roof, including monies to cover any unexpected problems that may arise when the shingles were removed and the replacement of trim where needed, along with exterior painting was $100,000. Despite the economic strain on families over the last few years, we surpassed the $100,000 mark and raised $101,079.00. Alleluia and thank you, thank you, thank you.
As you are aware, the roof, trim and exterior finish have been completed. I am very happy to report that the actual cost of the work was less than the $101,079. raised. The cost of the roof was $57,085.00 (no additional work needed); exterior repair and paint (Rhino Shield, a protective covering with a 25 year guaranty) was $12,532.00, leaving a balance of $31,462.00 in the maintenance account. Subsequent monthly maintenance collections totaled 8,252. increasing the balance to $39,714.
Given the age of the buildings and our inability, due to lack of funds in the past, to be proactive with maintenance, we are now being faced with necessary repairs to both the school and the rectory to prevent major damage.
The following items have been replaced/repaired since the roof was completed: thirteen single pane windows needed to be replaced in the school, for a total of $3,250; the boiler, which has been habitually repaired is in need of replacement. However, it is not optimal to replace a boiler in the winter, therefore, the boiler has been repaired so that we will be able to get through the winter, for a total of $3,534.00. We are in the process of obtaining bids to replace the boiler.
The balance remaining in the maintenance account is $32,930.
During 2011, the Grounds and Maintenance Committee (formerly the Roof Committee) is in the process of creating and prioritizing a list of work to be completed for all of the buildings. The most urgent, at this time is the roof on the Rectory. There is an area that is leaking and we are obtaining estimates.
2011 also brings a time for celebration with the 25th Anniversary of the dedication of our present church in August. Our goal is to repaint the interior, scrub the tile and refinish the wooden floors in preparation of the celebration! More to come as plans progress!
The monthly collection for maintenance and repair is crucial to our efforts to stay ahead of the expenses and reduce the number of special collections. Please be as generous as possible so that we can build reserve for future repairs.
May God bless you throughout the New Year!
Pastor George Dufour
