09/27/2023 BC Minutes

Minutes for Bethlehem Cares Committee

September 27, 2023

1 p.m.

 

Attending: April Hibberd, Carol Haywood, Welfare Director Dawn Ferringo and Chris Jensen

 

Ms. Ferringo distributed Bethlehem Cares Fund Application #24, which came from a resident who had an unexpected, $309 car repair and was facing a shortfall in the rent.

 

The committee discussed the application and concluded that it would be appropriate to provide assistance. Ms. Hibberd made a motion to provide $309. Ms. Haywood seconded the motion. It passed unanimously.

 

There was also a discussion of the challenge in getting a quorum since some members work during the day. One member, Ruth Heintz, noted in two recent emails that, meeting during the day, will remain a problem and it would be best if she resigned. Mr. Jensen made a motion to accept Ms. Heintz’s resignation and thank her for her help, which began when Bethlehem Cares was founded.

 

Mr. Jensen noted that earlier this year, the committee had voted to allow emergency action if a quorum was not possible. He offered to search the minutes and notes to find that decision.

 

It was also agreed that moving forward, the committee members should find acceptable dates for meeting without the help of the welfare director.

 

Town Administrator Mary Moritz was also invited to the join the committee to discuss the accounting link between the Bethlehem Cares account and the account Bethlehem Food Pantry. While there is no mingling of the funds, Ms. Moritz agreed to investigate whether they could be unlinked, which would make the work of the welfare director a little easier.

 

The committee adjourned about 2:30.