To the FUUSE community:
The capital campaign is complete, and plans are moving forward for renovating our space. We have raised more than $100,000 above our target campaign goal and expect to have enough money received to start construction in the spring of 2019. Members of the Board of Trustees and the Renovations Committee are carefully planning the next steps:
- The Board is overseeing the development of a roadmap for how we will select an architect, refine the design within budget, hire a contractor, and proceed with the renovation.
- The Finance Committee is advising the Board about options for financing the project so that we can begin construction as quickly as possible.
Along the way, we will provide regular updates to the congregation on our progress. In the coming months we will be busy interviewing architects, working with the town on approvals, and finalizing plans to present to you all in the fall.
Renovations Committee Activity: The request for proposals (RFP) is being sent out to potential architects this week. This letter to FUUSE members and friends provides an update on where things are, what’s next, how to get involved, and where to find more information. A copy of the RFP can be found on our website via this link: [FUUSE Renovations RFP]
The Renovations Committee prepared the RFP that asks for submittals back by May 9. We are asking five architects to give us their view on the project and hope to have a decision made by the Annual Meeting, on June 11, to present to the congregation.
Schedule: Between April 2018 and September 2019, the process is planned as follows:
| 2018 | April | Internal planning |
| May-June | Select and sign architect | |
| July-October | Clarify, modify existing design with congregation and architect | |
| October-January | Permitting and any necessary variances | |
| 2019 | January | Finalize design |
| January-February | Bid project out to contractors | |
| February | Award construction contract | |
| March-August | Construction | |
| September | Project completion |
Volunteer Opportunities:
Now is the time to volunteer for a major role in this project. We are putting together the team that will be responsible for carrying the work forward for our congregation, and now is the time to commit yourself to help. We are looking for individuals with skills and experience that might include:
- background in construction management
- legal expertise
- aesthetics experience
- communications skills
- marketing know-how
We have a simple committee structure that is easy to work within for decision-making purposes going forward, and the Renovations Committee will work closely with the Board to get the job done from start to finish. You may be contacted personally about volunteering, but please reach out to us if you have interests and skills in any of those areas.
More Information: Check out the FUUSE webpage and Facebook pages for latest news about project progress including opportunities to get involved and milestones. A post on the web page from November, 2017, includes more details about the plans. In addition, we will be sending out an email letter like this one to update you with progress (on a regular basis).
Thanks for being part of this exciting step forward in living into our mission.
If you have suggestions or comments please email Deb Merrick at fjmerrick@gmail.com or reach out to any member of the Renovations Committee.
From the Renovations Committee:
Deb Merrick
Dave Michelsen
Tom O’Gorman
Kristin O’Gorman
Cliff Sinnott