Decision Log
The choices that shaped the project, with the reasoning behind them. This is the fastest way for a new member to understand why things are the way they are — and it protects the committee from relitigating settled questions.
Convene an expert advisory group for the organ
Decision: Rather than deciding internally, convene craftsmen and musicians to evaluate restoring a used instrument vs. commissioning new.
Why: The organ is a significant investment with long-lived consequences for worship. Specialist judgment is warranted.
Building Committee
Select The Intec Group as architect of record
Decision: After reviewing proposals from a vetted list of firms, engage The Intec Group.
Why: Selected on the strength of proposal review by committee representatives, consistent with the practice of vetting multiple candidates in every category.
Building Committee
Engage a project management firm first
Decision: Retain a project management firm as the first partner, ahead of architect or engineers.
Why: Large commercial projects require experienced coordination, and Montgomery County familiarity is essential. The PM firm then assisted in selecting subsequent partners.
Building Committee
Plan the full 38-acre campus, not just the church building
Decision: Expand scope from a replacement structure to a master campus plan including walking trails and a potential new home for Spencerville Adventist Academy.
Why: Survey input pointed toward thoughtful use of all church resources. Planning the campus as a whole now avoids constraining future options.
Building Committee
Survey the congregation before designing
Decision: Develop and administer a congregational survey as one of the Committee's first acts.
Why: Members have invested in this church's ministry for decades. Their input shaped not just a building but a vision for the whole 38-acre property.
Building Committee
Establish governance before making any building decisions
Decision: Stand up a Building Committee with formal Terms of Reference and a written strategic direction before evaluating any design or vendor.
Why: A rebuild of this magnitude needs clear governance and shared direction. Deciding how decisions get made — and who has authority — prevents rework and conflict later.
Building Committee