NEW LEADERSHIP, NEW DUES STRUCTURE, OUTSTANDING MEMBER AWARD
REPORTED BY LUCY GOODHART
BHC’s Annual Meeting took place on Sunday, November 8, with 25-30 in attendance, one-third via Zoom. Our community filled the Social Hall!
The meeting started on a serious note, as Dave explained that Melissa Potter has decided to stand down from the BHC Board and leadership. Melissa has served as our co-President since 2023 and has steered us through major changes. Those present voiced their thanks. We are deeply grateful for her leadership.
The main part of the meeting’s business was the presentation of the budget for Financial Year 2027, which started on November 1. As Mike Adler, our BHC Treasurer, explained, last year was good, so that we even have some carryover funds. However, core costs, including security and rabbinic services, have risen. While this year saw exceptional donations, they are not expected to continue as the “new normal.” With that in mind, the Board has resolved to raise fees for the next fiscal/membership year, starting November 2027.
However, BHC will convene a special committee, tasked with reviewing the principles that should guide this increase – and we will maintain our commitment that lack of funds cannot be a barrier to membership. Do you have a background in accounting, financial management or non-profit management? Might you be interested in joining this committee? Please email our Treasurer, Mike Adler, to leanr more about the committee here.
With all those details explained, the budget for the next financial year passed with overwhelming support.
In reviewing BHC, Dave Goldstone highlighted all the positive developments we have seen in the past year. We have dynamic and compelling rabbinic leadership. We have new members. We remain a hub for wonderful cultural activities. All this lays the foundation for a good year ahead.
The remainder of the meeting was devoted to the award for Outstanding Member, which this year went to Jay Johnson – who has taken BHC to new heights! See the article below for Jay’s perfect acceptance speech. Finally, we thanked the many people who contributed to the AGM, including Anna McClennen, who compiled the reports.
See additional photos of the meeting by Martin Kessel here.