December R & R Minutes

The Repair and Refresh committee held a meeting on December 7, 2010 discussing the current and future improvements being made to Holy Trinity. Here are some of the highlights from the minutes:

1. It has been decided to paint the wainscoting in the body of the church instead of stripping and restaining it. Estimated painting costs are $3,800 compared to estimated refinishing costs between $13,500-$15,000.

2. The estimated cost of refurbishing the exterior windows for the church would cost anywhere between $10,000-$20,000. It was also noted the church foundation is in much need of repair. It was decided to handle these 2 projects in the spring.

3. A recommendation from Kevin Autenrieb is being reviewed by the committee to make a floor extension in front of the baptismal font. This extension could be a 2-3 feet out from the main Sanctuary. This extra space would allow for easier movement and more space around the font. It will also bring a more balanced look to the altar.

4. The final paint colors chosen for the interior walls were named officially: Sand and Plum.

5. The estimate for kneeler repair came in from Sauder's in Vandalia. New foam will cost $1,600 and vinyl $920 for 60 kneelers. The cost of labor has not been included in that price. A few parishioners have volunteered to repair the kneelers, although it is unknown at this point if the labor will be too intensive. The new vinyl will be a light beige color.

6. The committee also decided that the pews are not in bad shape and therefore do not need to be professionally cleaned and stained. Volunteers will instead clean the pews with Murphy's Oil after all renovations are complete as to avoid staining the carpet.

7. Also, 36 inches from the front pews on each side along the main aisle will be taken off to accommodate for wheelchairs and allow more room for funerals.

8. The flooring bid from Taylorville Home Source to carpet the balcony and body of the church was approved. The original bid will be reduced due to the Sanctuary not being carpeted.

9. Six new chairs for the Sanctuary will be ordered to seat the musicians, servers, and lector. The chairs will be foldable in a nice, stained wood and will match the other Sanctuary furniture accordingly.

10. Track lighting has been installed in the church. Kevin Autenrieb recommends bulbs that produce a bright, but soft light to be placed in them.

Also, a highlight of the meeting was the reporting of a letter and contribution from the State Bank of Blue Mound. They wrote a note with their sizable donation to the R & R fund complimenting Holy Trinity's efforts and dedication to this project.

The R & R committee invites everyone to attend Christmas Eve mass at 6:30 p.m. this Friday. A majority of the scaffolding should be down, displaying all the beautiful work that has been completed thus far.

Merry Christmas!