Fitchburg Serenity Club

FSC HVAC Update

Posted: October 26, 2020 by Hilary K Leave a Comment

During the October board meeting, the FSC Board approved an extensive HVAC project to replace the third rooftop unit that is inoperable after numerous tactical fixes since the spring. This project will also address temperature control and comfort issues that have plagued FSC for years. This was an investment we considered very carefully and researched thoroughly, since the price tag for this project is high ($44k), and 2020’s been a challenging year.

After careful consideration, we decided to move forward because temperature issues have been the single-biggest challenge FSC has dealt with over the years, and short-term fixes (which are also not inexpensive) would not resolve our larger challenges of temperature control, airflow and comfort. We have funds in the FSC reserve account to cover this investment, and our HVAC partner for this project, Harker, has graciously extended payment terms to us which will spread out the cost over the next six months.

The new rooftop unit will be operational within the next couple of weeks, addressing heat issues in Room E, lobby and restrooms.

Remaining work to address airflow/comfort issues involves duct work and may impact Rooms A/B beyond that timeframe.

Groups typically meeting in A/B are being asked to meet in the Ballroom/Room E while work’s being done, with the Ballroom being preferable on cold days. There is a sign in the lobby to this effect.

Thank you for your patience, and we hope to bring you a more comfortable meeting experience in the very near future.

Posted: September 30, 2020 by Hilary K Leave a Comment

Mid-Year FSC Financial Update

Many of you have asked how the clubhouse is doing financially this year. We wanted to provide an update through the month of August. We will continue to update you in the months to come. You’ll find graphs below. Here are a few highlights from Fitchburg Serenity Club Treasurer Dave S.

Income is down, but trending up from May. Specifically, rent is down, but trending up from May.
We currently have 238 FSC members. Of these, 142 members are current on pledged giving. During this time of financial challenge for many, we are not ending memberships due to lack of payment. However, those able to resume/maintain membership pledges during this time are encouraged to do so.
Operating expenses have been reduced to accommodate the lower income. (Minor) Repairs and Maintenance is the largest discretionary category being reduced.
Capital projects previously funded are in process. New capital funding that can be held off is suspended during this time of austerity.

Monthly Income Trend September 2019 through August 2020

FSC Income vs Expenses September 2019 through August 2020

While revenue has fluctuated significantly, normal monthly operating expenses remain constant. These operating expenses run about $6000 monthly for FSC. When monthly income doesn’t cover this amount, we need to tap our prudent reserves.

The extent to which we need to use reserve funds for operating expenses impacts our ability to cover big-ticket items to maintain and preserve our beautiful, old clubhouse. Earlier in 2020, those big-ticket items included HVAC fixes, a much-needed security system installation, as well as a safer set of steps and walkway up to the building to replace the old paver walkway.

Prior to the pandemic impacts, we had planned to move forward with kitchen renovation, but have put this project on hold in favor of focus on must-do projects for the sake of repair and maintenance and keeping the doors open. For example, this fall/winter, we will likely need to invest in some major HVAC system repairs and upgrades.

If you have questions, you may always email the FSC board. Thank you for your continued 7th Tradition donations for Fitchburg Serenity Club.

You can make a one-time donation or set up recurring donation amounts via our Paypal donate link below or at any time from our homepage.

Posted: April 24, 2020 by Hilary K Leave a Comment

Spring has sprung! As the weather warms, the FSC picnic tables and firepit provide a great place to soak up a little sunshine. Whether you’re attending meetings at FSC or online right now, your participation in the fellowship is so critical and valued!

Thank you for your financial contributions and membership dues during this time to help cover FSC expenses that remain constant even when in-person meeting attendance is down. We appreciate your participation in the 7th Tradition!

The latest FSC Schedule is available below.

–> DOWNLOAD THE NEW FSC MEETING SCHEDULE

For recovery & connection while sheltering in place:

–>Click here for ZOOM meeting logins and passcodes.

The 7th Tradition is Available Online

As you attend meetings via Zoom, please consider making your usual “basket” contributions online. While FSC’s in-person meeting attendance is down during our current season of social distancing, FSC expenses remain the same. We are self-supporting through our own contributions.

Last Updated: September 24, 2019 by Webmaster FSC Leave a Comment