405 Oak Street is happy to announce that we have resumed our regular meeting schedule

Virtual meetings continue to help reach everyone in need.

Masks are recommended. Please stay safe.

We also ask that those who are able, contribute extra to the basket to help us make up for the losses during our closure and limited capacity. Thank you!

1.5 years ago, the board created a dedicated building committee tasked with upgrading our beloved building.  The decision was made early to ensure we proceeded with extreme attention to detail and the highest level of care and integrity.  It was also decided that keeping the feel and aesthetics of the building was important.  A 5-year plan was then developed, prioritizing both small and large projects. The first large project is to add a women’s restroom to the main floor.  While doing so, the men’s restroom and the coffee bar will also be upgraded, along with the 100-year-old plumbing.  The entire main floor will now be ADA-accessible.  This has been needed for a long time, so this will be our starting point.

As stated previously, we are 1.5 years into this project, and rightfully so; members and donors are asking why things aren’t happening faster.  This update is being provided in hopes of answering those questions.  Please reference the below outline and a rendering of the women’s restroom.

Timeline.

1. Hired a reputable architect.
   1.  
      1. Surveyed the building and rendered drawings for proposed upgrades.
         1. We are currently on our 4th scheme; each has been reviewed and modified as the design has developed.  This process is time-intensive when done properly.
   1. The board has approved the building committee to proceed.
   1. The architect has been authorized to move forward with the permit drawings.

Upgrades that have already been completed.

1. Purchased 200 new chairs for all meeting rooms.
2. The parking lot was replaced with 8’ concrete/blacktop, meeting dump truck DOT spec.
3. Repaired the HVAC system.
4. Replaced all drop ceilings and added new LED lighting throughout.
5. New water heater.
6. A new AV system to better broadcast downstairs meetings to the upstairs room.

Upgrades that are near completion or beginning within the next few months.

1. New security system.
2. Tuck-pointing all masonry on the exterior of the building up to 5’ above grade.
3. Installing the engraved paver walkway.

The next long-term project.

Upgrade the front porch with a handicap ramp added.