Is the 2026 Estimate of Giving the same as the Now and Later Capital Campaign?

No. Each year we ask the congregation to prayerfully consider making a financial gift to support the ministries and operations of the church. These gifts go toward our general operating budget. The Now and Later Capital Campaign is separate and is designed to fund capital building improvements and projects that are not included in the general budget.

Where does the money raised from the Now and Later Capital Campaign go?

All campaign contributions will be placed in an account dedicated exclusively to this fund. Income and expenses will be fully transparent and reported, consistent with past accounting and bookkeeping practices for previous capital campaigns.

How much money has been raised and how much money has been spent so far? 

As of July 14, 2026, the First Presbyterian Church Capital Campaign has received $113,918 in donations from members and friends of the congregation. In addition to these gifts, designated trust distributions and foundation support continue to provide additional resources for future capital improvement projects.

The Capital Campaign continues to build momentum, with about $113,000 already received in gifts from members and friends of the congregation. Additional designated trust distributions and foundation support are expected to provide ongoing funding through 2028, helping the congregation address both immediate and long-term capital improvement priorities.

Total Funds Available in 2026: $128,918

Anticipated Additional Funding

• 2027: $15,000
• 2028: $15,000

Who can I talk with to get my questions answered about this campaign?  Questions can be directed to Wayne Delegrave or Brad Dinsmoor.

Why not sell the rental house at 207 West Avenue and use the proceeds for capital improvements?

The rental house is fully paid off and all apartments rented, generating approximately $4,100 per month. This income not only covers expenses but also allows us to build reserves for major maintenance needs on that property. When necessary, we use some of those reserves to support the church’s general operating budget.

While selling the house would provide short-term cash for capital improvements, it would eliminate an important long-term revenue source that supports ongoing ministry operations.

Why not just replace parking lot bulbs as they fail?

It’s more cost-efficient to complete all lighting upgrades at once rather than scheduling expensive lift equipment multiple times for individual replacements.

Can I designate my gift toward a specific project?

Possibly. Designated gifts can be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please speak with Wayne Delegrave or Brad Dinsmoor about your intentions before making a designated contribution.

The campaign goal is $500,000, but the listed projects total less than half that. Why is the goal so high?

Some future projects have not yet been fully identified — for example, replacing sections of the 25-year-old sprinkler system. Roofing repairs will always be needed. The goal is to build a long-term Capital Fund that will allow us to address future needs without launching another major campaign sooner than later.

What is the status of repairing or replacing the Cargill Fence?  What about replacing it with something less expensive and easier to maintain?

This option has not been explored. What we do know is this. The existing fence would need to be removed which includes the stucco base as well as several concrete supports which could be one to two feet deep which will add to the expense of removing the existing structure.  This cost would need to be weighed against the cost of sandblasting the existing wrought iron fence, patching and painting the stucco and repainting the fence to ensure we extend its life expectancy. This project has not been discussed more in detail yet.  It will most likely involve detailed research into our repair or replacement options and costs before it is considered by the Session.

Do we have an obligation to keep the existing fence because of its historical value?

No.  The decision is up to us. The Cargill Foundation is not likely to fund improvements to the fence.

What projects have been completed so far?

Tree Trimming and Removal was recently completed this spring.  The software that controls our HVAC system has been replaced.  Bids are being sought for the replacement of our existing heating and cooling equipment.  We are identifying specific problem areas in our outdoor irrigation system.  Once those areas have been identified, we can seek a bid to repair the areas that need attention.