Marsh House board of trustees minutes
Nov. 18, 2019, 5:30 p.m. David Boyle presided. The Minutes of the Marsh House Board of Trustees for Oct. 21, 2019, were unanimously approved.
The Treasurer’s reports for October 2019 were received. The balance in the operating account is $9,215.99 with expenses of $356.69 and income of $20.00. In the Designated Funds Account, income was $0.00 with 0.00 expenses and a balance of $31,190.27. The Endowment Fund is at $27,707.12 pair issues: Estimates by Andy Burran, geotechnical Engineer of AFS Foundations and Waterproof Specialists were received. Mr. Burran visited the site and also obtained the original engineering drawings from the first engineering assessment in 2004. He drew up the specifications which were sent to Mr. Alex Baker to subcontract for the masonry work. Mr. Baker’s estimate based on the specifications was reported. Mr. Burran’s estimate for AFS to install four SettleStop helical anchors and 4 SettleStop wall braces was also reported. Thus, total estimated cost would be more than $15,000. Two more contractor bids will be sought. No response from the county yet.
Cabin termite treatment: A filler, strengthening spray is being considered for the damaged boards.
The Friends of the Marsh House annual membership campaign has begun with a mailing in mid-November. All board members are expected to join at any level.
Since the house will be closed over the holidays, the Board will give the interpreters a little party on Monday, Dec. 2, 7:00 p.m., with refreshments, music, stories of previous candlelight tours and decorating the welcome center.
Administration/house management: Several names were suggested a potential board members to be contacted for a response.
Furnishings: The Oct. 27 WCHS 3:00 p.m. meeting to show items donated by Janice Fortune was a big success. Certain photos of the Warthen siblings have been kept for display in the house. Most of the others have been sent to the archives. The piano in the welcome center is still for sale.
Interpretation: Need more docents, Training opportunities during house closure. A big push will be made in February and March.
Building and grounds:
The brick wall along the sidewalk on North Main is being taken down and replaced as the City moves the sewers from the street to under the sidewalk. Southwest column is in need of repair. The work crew will try to preserve the magnolia tree and to locate gutter drains. Malcom Pickle gave an estimate of about $650-700, depending on materials cost. This expense was approved unanimously on a motion by Davene Nichols (1) and Joan Fowler (2). Estimates on landscape installations to prevent water in basement have been requested from two professionals, but not received yet. A method for UV protection on the west windows has been located and is being investigated and priced.
2020 Calendar is developing. The annual board planning retreat is planned for Sunday afternoon, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Jan. 12. The Clayton Bell FundRaising Scholarship Reception is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Since the House is closed for repairs, there will be no candlelight tours, photos with Santa or decoration this year.
Next board meeting: Monday, Dec. 16, 5:30 pm, at the welcome center. If there are no major decisions pending, the meeting may be canceled. Respectfully submitted, David Boyle, recording secretary