Sheldon Historical Society
Board meeting
May 20, 2025
6:30 PM
Additions to Agenda considered
Minutes of the March meeting
Treasurer’s report
Committee updates
Other business:
DRAFT Minutes
The May meeting of the board was convened at 6:30, with Mr Valenta, Kaseoru, Crane, McFeeters, Derry, and Ms Mercure and Derry present. Mr Garrow, Norris, Smith, and Ms Churchill and Crane were absent. Ms Erin Grainger was present and introduced on behalf of the Sheldon Girl Scouts.
In the absence of Ms Crane, Mr McFeeters assumed the chair, and invited additions to the posted agenda.
The Minutes of the March meeting, circulated electronically, were received, and accepted without amendments on a motion by Mr Crane/Mr Valenta 2nd.
Ms Churchill circulated the treasurer’s report electronically prior to the meeting. Mr Crane/Mr Derry 2nd moved to accept the report. Discussion concerning the format of the report ensued, and Mr Crane suggested that the format of our reports has been inconsistent since Ms Royea set up the framework in 2021. Mr Crane also observed that the board promised an audit of the Society’s financial condition when Ms Churchill agreed to serve as treasurer. Mr Crane will contact Ms Royea and see if she would be able to facilitate an audit of the accounts, and coordinate with Ms Churchill to harmonize the report format. The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the audit parameters. The motion was approved without objection.
Mr Crane briefly summarized the status of work on the building. He expressed confidence that the painting in the upstairs hall will be completed before the annual meeting. Window and door trim remain to be installed.
Ms Derry presented for the House Committee, indicating that the June 17 Annual Meeting plans are under control. Jason Barney will present his research on Vermont’s involvement in the Revolutionary War. Seating, refreshments, and publicity are in the hands of the House Committee. The business of the annual meeting is: to welcome members and guests with remarks on the achievements of the past year and assure members of the stability of the organization’s financial health; and to nominate and elect board members to fill vacancies as they exist. Mr Crane will contact board members whose terms are expiring, to see if they will stand again for another term.
Ms Derry was also asked about the proposed Rail Trail welcome tent: to be sponsored and manned alternately by community organizations one Saturday each month through the season. The schedule remains unclear.
The opportunity for an internet connection was discussed. Our six security cameras presently are passive: recording to a master computer, where images are stored for a defined term, then overwritten. Internet capability would allow a real-time monitoring of the camera system. Fidium, a subset of Consolidated Communications, offers a no-contract subscription for about $600/year. Mr Derry/Ms Derry 2nd move to contact Mr Norris to identify suitable locations for the cameras. Approved unanimously.
The policy on the use of the building by groups or individuals not affiliated with the Sheldon Historical Society was discussed. Mr Crane stated that the Town has sent the policy for review by the Town’s attorney and insurance underwriters. Concern is raised about the inability to secure collections during such events. Mr Derry/Mr Valenta 2nd moved to table discussion.
Mr McFeeters spoke about the continuing work on the Society’s collection. Heather Privee has offered a large conference table: Mr Kaseoru/Mr Derry 2nd moved to accept this donation. Approved.
Mr Valenta expressed with regret that his increased workload forces him to resign chairmanship of the education committee. His valuable contribution to deliberations of the board was noted. He agrees to continue serving on the board.
Ms Mercure noted the Event Committee met and will host the first Friday 500 card party on May 30. An Open House is scheduled for August 9th, focusing on the completion of the building rehabilitation. The nature of the presentation, food and entertainment is evolving.
On a motion by Mr Crane/Ms Derry 2nd, the meeting adjourned at 8:40.
Respectfully submitted
Andrew Crane, secretary