Springport Area Growth Association
General Meeting Minutes January 18, 2006

The meeting was called to order by President Lisa Mitchell at 6:07 pm for a special presentation by the Penchansky Architect Firm to discuss plans for the Springport Branch of the Jackson District Library. Members and guests present included: John Hammond, Gordon Webb, Nathan Saed., Rosi Terpening, Abbie Sabados, Chris Sabados, Emily Sabados, Marci Sabados, Lisa Mitchell, Elaine Piper, Darlene Richards, Linda Griffith, Megan Burgess, Thomas G., Jackie Merritt, Brenda Heisler, Bill Hammond, Sherry Binkowski, Sherie Prine, Bill Russell, Tabatha Segar.

The presentation about the Springport Branch of the Jackson District Library highlighted possibilities for locations. The library will need at least 2,900 square feet and 14 parking spaces. A new building will provide a user-friendly atmosphere that offers more space, and an open environment with cozy corners. The building could also be used for community meeting space as well. A survey of hands showed that everyone present at the meeting would like to see the library located on Main Street rather than a parcel of land off of Mechanic Street. One option placed the library on Main Street between the Hotel Tavern and the Village Office; while another option place the library on Main Street next to the Farm Bureau Insurance and the Hotel Tavern with parking located where the library currently sits. Both options were discussed and it was apparent that in order to find a good location, the mission of SAGA to promote businesses must remain intact. The possibility of finding someone to donate the space or land was also discussed.

There was a brief intermission after the presentation and the meeting was called back to order at 7:23 pm by President Lisa Mitchell.

It was moved by Megan and seconded Marci to suspend the reading of the minutes for this week. Motion carried.

In the absence of Dan Merritt, Jackie Merritt presented the treasurer report which featured a 2005 financial statement showing total revenues at $12,999.95 and expenses at $1,498.03, giving a balance of $11,501.92 at the close of the 2005 year. Currently SAGA has a balance of $12,625.11 with the addition of the Sunday breakfast bringing in $1,048.09, talk to Santa $28.00, home tour $8.00, and donation cans $32.40. It was moved by Megan and seconded by Marci to accept the treasurers’ report. Motion carried.

SAGA was proud to welcome Tabatha Segar who has recently joined SAGA. Tabatha is the manager of the Spring Harbor Park. She brings a positive spirit and joyful smile to SAGA.

The Fundraising, Membership, and Events committee reported that membership in SAGA is at 35. A special thank you was given to Jackie Merritt for making the signs and name tags at the Sunday Breakfast. Fundraising noted that they are working with Pat Wilson at the Hotel Tavern to organize a spaghetti dinner, which she indicated that there would not need to be as many volunteers as the breakfast and that more information will be posted at a later date.

SAGA will be having a Beach Party within the next few weeks (exact day and time will be posted later). The Beach Party will be a family-oriented dance and will have hot dogs, baked beans, and chips and free popcorn. The fundraising committee is looking into having the Beach Party at the VFW.

The fundraising committee is also planning a Denny Hoag concert for the spring. Their next meeting will be on February 6th at Country Town Golf Course.

It was moved by Megan and seconded by Jackie to unanimously elect Jeff Mitchell as Media and Public Relations Committee chair. Motion carried.

The Media and Public Relations Committee reported that they are looking for a 2006 sponsor of the web site www.springportmi.com. Sponsorship is $120.00 for the year. The committee also reported that Lisa will be writing a welcome letter to all new members of SAGA. Lastly the committee is looking into doing presentations at Township meetings to explain what SAGA is and what we do.

The Youth Outreach Committee will possibly be meeting next Wednesday January 25th at Marci Sabados’ house to discuss their letter-writing auction fund raiser.

Under old business, the 501(c)3 status was discussed. A budget is needed by the lawyer and accountant to work towards finishing the project.

There was no new business or items for discussion under the open forum. Then next SAGA meeting will be on Wednesday February 15, 2006 at 7:00 pm at the village office.

Meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,
Megan Burgess
SAGA Secretary