Executive Board Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by President Dan Sokoloski at 9:05 A.M. with the following members present:
Dan Sokoloski, Alan Fitzgibbon, Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman, Hilton Holcomb, Ash Tyler, Cathy Rod, David Barkley, Charlie Spencer, Peggy Meinzer and Richard Boland. Also in attendance were Billy Privette, Extension 4-H Agent and Dr. Zelphia Grissett, Brunswick County Assistant Superintendent of Education for Curriculum Development.

Dr. Zelphia Grissett was introduced to the Board and given a brief overview of the work of Master Gardeners especially as it relates to our desire to be of service to the public schools of the county. This was important especially as it concerns our plans to conduct ÒDay on the FarmÓ this year. Dr. Grissett would take this information to the County School Board meeting as it concerns travel to and from the farm in light of their budget for field trips.

Upon the departure of Dr. Grissett, the Board undertook consideration of the main purpose of the meeting - our budget. In the absence of Linda Lemieux, Charlie gave an abbreviated treasurerÕs report, to wit, a current balance of $13,029.33 less approximately $1,300.00 for a riding lawn mower which leaves approximately $11,700.00. The mower had been approved by the membership at the last meeting. $400.00 needs to be added to the budget to offset the expense of having guest speakers for our monthly meetings. Bids are being received for the construction of a pad for a new building for storage. In addition to $2500 on hand from Restitution, an additional $2000.00 will be needed. The plan for the entire building will be around $4700.00. Shirley recommended we expend $1000.00 on the Tree Trail. This would take care of one tree as a Òmarketing toolÓ. The rest should income from other sources.

Ash requested an additional $600.00 for carts for the green house and plant sale activities plus $400.00 for a tree dolly; $2000.00 for spring plant sale items; $500.00 for additional gravel; $1,000.00 for irrigation.

David would like to explore the possibility of using of some of the excess monies to purchase a labeling system for plants and trees. Ash would like to explore the possibility of acquiring a labeling system for plant sale items.

Shirley suggested that MG pay for David to attend the MG State Conference. $200.00 was approved for this purpose.

New copy machines require the use of codes for accounting purposes. MG will be billed on usage.

According to David, there will be no requirement for our services at the Cape Fear Fair this year.

Shirley recommended we establish guidelines and policies gifts and honoraria for the future. A $100.00 gift certificate was approved for Al Hight who is leaving to take up duties in Pender County.

Hilton reported that all Botanical Garden projects are on hold due to the current cost of gasoline.

As a parting gift, Alan has contributed a 3 hp garden tiller to MG.

Charlie reminded the Board of Heritage Day at Indigo Farms on October 1.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 A.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Richard Boland, Recording Secretary