State of the Facilities Report

The purpose of this blog entry is to inform the Southside congregation on the status of our buildings and grounds.

The sanctuary was built around 1957 and remodeled around 1990. During the remodel, neither the pews nor the lighting was updated. since the 1990 remodel, however, the sound has been updated.

Except for cosmetic work, no major update has been done in the past 20 years. Our building feels old and tired. A major renovation is long overdue. new seating and lighting installed the sanctuary would be a good place to start; the balcony is uncomfortable and should be reconfigured for better seating. The stage and choir rooms are also in need of updating.

The Old Education Building (OEB) was built around 1958, and except for the moving of a few walls and installation of carpet and painting, there has been no upgrading of the OEB in 51 years. Restrooms, lighting, ceilings, carpet and tile need to be updated. Resource rooms are in terrible condition and need to be gutted and updated.

The Christian Activity Center (CAC) was built in 1987. Five air conditioning/heat units cover this area and they are 22 years old. The HVAC units are long past the typical life span and should be replaced. The rubber membrane roof that covers the CAC is also 22 years old and has deteriorated due to age and weather; it should be replaced.

The modular building was purchased in 1997 to provide space for our growing Preschool department. In recent years, however, 2 adult Bible study classes meet there. The modular is 12 years old and is showing its age. It needs a new roof, awnings, carpet and tile.

In addition to the main church building, the Southside campus includes 9 houses which were built in the 60's. Several Southside ministries use these houses, including Sunday School, Youth and Singles. We also have a Mission House which has been used by furloughing missionaries as well as others in need of temporary housing. church offices and a counseling center are also located in 3 of these houses. The 9 houses were purchased with the long-term goal of tearing them down to make was for a new church building; in the meantime, the houses are used continually and must be carefully maintained to ensure the safety and comfort of all.

A critical issue at Southside is safety and security. Although background checks are done for volunteers and staff, we must be proactive and have a more comprehensive plan for safety and security for the entire church. Unfortunately, the necessary funds are not available at this time to put such a plan into action.

Our history at Southside has been to do quick fix rather than spend the money required to update and renovate. It's time to give up the tired, worn and dated and 'spiff up' the house of the Lord. Let's invest our time and our money in order to make our facilities inviting, warm, safe and modern...for the benefit of the Body and our guest and to the glory of God.