Club’s finances major reason for changes explained June 13

Despite membership dropping by 75 members or more in 15 years, we’ve continued to operate the way we did in the 1990’s. The ride had to come to an end some time, and this is the time.

Your club’s board wrestled with ways to cut expenses and increase membership, making a number of changes Julie listed. Some were major like closing the club office and eliminating the paid position of club secretary; some were minor like reducing support for summer t-ball programs run by the city’s Leisure Services.

Julie also updated the accounting system from “cash basis” to “accrual.” The effect is that expenses are recognized when incurred, not when they are paid. In March we owed the hotel for meals for four months but since they had not been paid, they are not in the financials. That doesn’t fairly represent the club’s situation.

Years of declining revenue from reduced membership has drained most of the financial reserves of our now 101-year old club.

It was time for action. The proposed budget for 2016-2017 shows net revenue of $15,000 which is a good start on rebuilding cash reserves. 2016-2017 President Elect Phil Nash told the group on the 13^th that membership growth will be his top priority. While every member can help recruit and retain members, he is looking for one or two “dynamos” to lead the effort. If you would like to help, please let him know.