Below you will find the proposals presented by the Executive Planning Committee to the congregation at the April Business Meeting and approved at the special meeting in May. Please look over each section as well as the Frequently Asked Questions. We want you to be well informed and excited about the upcoming changes around El Camino. We are can’t wait to see how God will be moving in the future of El Camino.
The Executive Planning Committee consists of: Elders – Arny Humble, Gary Cumberledge, Ron Rushing; Deacons – Bill Applegate (moderator), Jim Simpson; Enabling Team – Wayne Wood; At Large – Richard Parker; Secretary – Hoss Hughes
RATIONALE:
Establishes a modern visible presence for our church
Increases communication flexibility
Eliminates banner communication issues and reduces associated costESTIMATED COST:
$20,000 – $30,000
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
Children's Renovation
RATIONALE:
Provides unified theme
Provides pleasing Biblical visual affect and comfort
Enhances the safety and sanitation
Keep visitors coming back
ESTIMATED COST:
$20,000 – $30,000
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
Foyer Expansion
RATIONALE:
Reduces/Relieves Congestion
Provides additional space for communicating with visitors as well as current attendees
Creates a more welcoming environment
ESTIMATED COST:
$20,000 – $40,000
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
Sanctuary Entrance Update
RATIONALE:
Establishes the worship center as the focal point of our church campus
Increases visual impact and esthetic appeal
Compliments and establishes spiritual thematic elements
ESTIMATED COST:
$20,000 (initial estimate)
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
Drop Off Area
RATIONALE:
Facilitates access in front of current worship center
Eliminates West parking lot congestion while increasing total handicap parking spaces near sanctuary
Creates new handicap van parking area
ESTIMATED COST:
Unknown at the present
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
New Building that houses offices, chapel and class rooms
RATIONALE:
West campus building deterioration and existing space needs
Centralizes staff while promoting efficiency and communication
Utility cost containment
ESTIMATED COST:
$1.2 million – $1.4 million
CONCEPTUAL IDEA:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the total cost for these projects?
Current estimates for the six projects fall between 1.5 and 1.8 million. A lot of this depends on rezoning and other unforeseen features. If we rezone, the minimum cost just for that will be $50,000 and could cost as much as $100,000 just for city fees and architectural plans.
2. Will we conduct a capital campaign?
We do expect to conduct a capital campaign but we do not anticipate hiring an outside firm to do it. Our intent is to establish a committee that will implement it. We are aiming to raise the necessary funds over a three year period. As funds come in, we will complete projects. Our intent is to try and raise about one half of the funds in pledges. If we do that, we would be able to manage the debt load if we have to borrow to finish the building.
3. How long will it take to complete these projects?
It is dependent on two issues. First is rezoning. If we rezone, it will take 6 months to a year to complete the process. However, several of these projects can be completed without rezoning. So we can proceed with some of them. The second factor is finances. Our intent is to go forward with each project as money comes in.
4. Is there a priority in development of these projects?
Projects 1 and 2 can be done without rezoning. Projects 3 and 4 can possibly be done without rezoning. Projects 5 and 6 will probably need rezoning. While the exact order of completion may change depending on need and rezoning issues, our intent is to start those projects which we can do as soon as funds and permits become available.
5. What about a new sanctuary?
A new sanctuary is not included in this plan. The ideas presented here are what we would call the 5 year plan. This plan will allow the church to fully function up to a congregational size of 900. The 10 year plan would include new parking and a new sanctuary – depending on continued growth of the church. A full blown architectural plan with all future develop will need to be developed for rezoning.
6. What about Solar Power on buildings and parking lots?
We have done some initial inquiries and people have submitted ideas and contacts regarding this. It is something we will explore but we have not done enough research to make a decision regarding anything as of yet. We are presenting the current list of ideas that we have for the future.
7. What about some of the “islands” in the parking lot?
Will they be removed to allow better access between the east and west parking lots? One of the architectural drawings that we have received has given us some ideas regarding this. If we do a drop off area, some of the islands will have to be modified and/or eliminated to accommodate traffic flow. In the long range plan, the parking lots will be completely redesigned. However, that is an expensive endeavor costing $750,000 to 1 million dollars.
8. How will this enhance ministry at El Camino?
These projects offer something for every ministry. The redecorating of the Children’s area will enhance and improve service to parents and children. The youth will have large, efficient classrooms to make their home. The adults will have new elective classrooms near the sanctuary. The new chapel would seat about 150 and make set up for small weddings and funerals much more efficient. The new chapel would be available on Sunday’s for ABF and/or elective utilization. The sanctuary would not have to be taken down and put back up for these events. The consolidation of offices in one building would decrease utility bills. Currently four units operate to heat and cool the offices. This means that the current sanctuary is being heated and cooled as the same time as offices – a very inefficient use of utilities. The drop off area will help those with handicaps or need assistance getting in and out.
