Along with the budding of trees and the casting off of woolens, spring brings the annual budget meeting and changeover in the board. The board met May 1 to consider the temple's annual budget. This is perhaps the most difficult meeting we conduct because we are forced to make difficult choices. (Indeed, at 10:30 p.m., we adjourned and scheduled a follow-up meeting to finish the work.) We are a frugal congregation. Our staff members are paid fairly, but I imagine they could improve their salaries and benefits elsewhere. Our furnishings are comfortable, but not replaced or updated as often as one would like. Volunteers provide many functions, including the landscaping in the front of the building, which was lovingly planted in mid-May by Sue B. and Pat G., and the analysis of the budget and expenses, which were doggedly managed by David W. and Ann S. We would like to do more, pay more, offer more training and off-site opportunities for all of our staff members. But our budget constrains what we can do.

Our operating budget depends in large part on membership payments, which comprise over three quarters of our revenue. For the last few years, average payments have increased only slightly. Soon we all will receive pledge forms for next year. In determining your pledge amount, I encourage you to think about our treasured staff, our building and our future. Do your calculations of your "fair share" and remember that each of us is responsible for the well-being of our community.

During the May meeting, the board also considered the hiring of a new education director, a search process led by Lee Futrovsky, and the next steps for the expansion campaign. On this front too, we have difficult decisions to make. I appreciate the deep concern that many of you have about how this project is progressing, and the frustration with meeting our goals. I hope to have more complete information to share at the June 3 membership meeting.

Finally, the board is losing four talented and committed members. Jonah Gitlitz served as member, vice president and president. He launched the assessment and initiation of the capital campaign, and brought the breadth of his management experience to the board. Kit W. served as treasurer far longer than she intended, and provided candor and accountability to our proceedings. Ann S., who took on the treasurer position from Kit, lent her business skills and acumen, which were particularly valuable as we negotiated our mortgage and handled other long-term financing issues. And finally, Lee Futrovsky's wisdom, insight, and sound judgment enlightened our discourse and kept us focused on our core duties. Each of these board members spent long hours serving on committees, analyzing spreadsheets, interviewing prospective staff members, and otherwise serving our community. They deserve everyone's thanks and appreciation.

[edited for web publication]