The council met on Sunday, November 16, for its monthly meeting. The following are highlights from the meeting. 

Council Highlights

• The Nominating Committee reported that two members have agreed to be placed on the Council ballot for the Annual Meeting, with one additional member considering.  There is still an opportunity for members to join Council in 2026, if they identify interest by December 1.  Members of the congregation who have a financial background are particularly encouraged to consider joining Council next year.

Action Items – St. Mark’s Constitution

• The Council approved the Property Team’s recommendation to change garbage collection vendors to provide monthly cost savings, as well as to discontinue the recycling collection bin outside.  St. Mark’s was being regularly fined for contaminated recycling resulting from area residents using the recycling bin for garbage disposal.

• Council approved the Stewardship Committee’s recommendation to modify the official member roster due to the inactivity of 35 members for the last two years.  Prior to Council’s action, those individuals received a letter inviting them to confirm their membership at St. Mark’s.  The current membership total stands at 525 members.

Property Team

• A ribbon cutting for the new playground space in partnership with District 129 took place on November 18

• The Property Team is working with service providers to complete the flooring project on the lower level, and has received bids from contractors for the development of the courtyard patio project.  More information will be shared with the congregation at the Annual Meeting. 

Stewardship Committee

• The “Stewardship Season” concluded earlier this month with 71% of giving units increasing their pledge for 2026.  The Mission Challenge matching gift was met.
• 2026 pledges can still be submitted.  Pledged gifts help in the development of the annual budget process by increasing the accuracy of anticipated revenue. 

Budget and Finance

• Council would like to thank members who participated in the Budget Forum and 2026 Pre-Budget discussion that took place earlier this month.  The pre-budget represents high-level estimates of income and expenses.  Council will review the 2026 annual budget at its December meeting.

Upcoming dates:

• Council’s next meeting is Sunday, December 21.

The Council is committed to open communication and ongoing transparency with the congregation. Please feel free to reach out to a Council member here with your questions.