Feasibility Study Purpose, Conclusions and Next Steps

1. The congregation is very broadly aware of the proposed building program plans; since of the 83 families who gave their input, 98% responded that they had either a great deal of knowledge or some knowledge of the project.

2. Likewise 93% of those surveyed believed the new building program plan would contribute positively to the ministry of the church. Respondents have a high level of confidence in our pastor, Rev. Peter Froehlke, and feel that the ministry will grow and be more exciting upon completion of the building program. Ninety-two percent (92%) of respondents had an Excellent to Good view of the church.

3. A significant majority of the congregation is supportive of a responsible financial plan for the building program. Eighty-four percent (84%) agree with initiating a Capital Funds Campaign plus a responsible mortgage to fund the building expansion and renovation plans. This question was reinforced by 83% who said they would be personally Supportive or Very Supportive of a 3-year Capital Funds Campaign.

4. The major potential issues raised had to do with affordability for a congregation of our size and lack of additional parking.Overall however, most respondents are anxious and excited about the new ministry and activities that will be available when the multi-purpose fellowship hall and classrooms are constructed.

5. There is further work to do (and potential opportunity) in engaging those families who did involve themselves in the feasibility study.

6. At the present time, based on the 2007 yearly congregational giving by members and friends of the church of $277,344, and the estimated range of $626,000 to $897,941 figure identified in this study (Question 10), Kirby Smith Associates believe that the financial support in a 3-year Capital Funds Campaign should be between $650,000 and $775,000.

Next Steps

1. It is recommended that the leadership and congregation move forward with a 3-year Capital Funds Campaign, based on the strong support for the need of the project and the high majority of the congregation willing to support the project financially.

2. As soon as possible, the Building Committee needs to consult with our architect and a construction cost estimator to determine whether some portions of the building project can be deferred or modified to permit a lower initial project cost. The experience of Kirby-Smith however has shown that as the project moves forward with increased definition, enthusiasm and financial support will continue to grow.

3. The Building and Finance Committees must develop a viable plan to demonstrate affordability to the congregation. Basic math however does indicate the need for more than one Capital Funds Campaign.

4. A Congregational Meeting will be scheduled; the proposed date is September 21st. Please reserve this date since we will be voting to proceed with the 3-year Capital Funds Campaign.

5. In the meantime, we will continue to work toward securing better estimates of building costs and to obtain the necessary approvals from the Township Planning Board and other local authorities.

6. A potentially realistic timeline would indicate that building work could commence by Fall 2009, with completion in 2010.

Please contact us by phone at : (908) 876-3547 or via Email at : zionlongvalley@comcast.net