Mid-year Treasurer’s Update

Hello friends of LaSalle - 

I am writing to share with you a midyear financial update. 

I want to first say thank you to everyone who has already given to the Foundations & Flooring Campaign - we really appreciate your generosity. If you've been meaning to give but haven't got around to it yet, there is still time; please visit www.lasallestreetchurch.org/foundations . The projects paid for by this campaign were essential for health reasons and also created a good time to bring a fresher look and greater accessibility to our worship space. 

We've eliminated the asbestos hazard, shored up some weak spots in the floor, installed new carpet and tile, painted the walls and peeling ceilings, improved accessibility in front of the pews and expanded the musician's area on the platform up front. The tiles were very old, and it's been nearly 25 years since the walls were last painted, time for a refresh. We also have a new Hall of History on display in the lower level. The one remaining part of the refresh that is not yet completed is updating the stage lighting; the lights are delayed and will be installed this fall when we receive them.  

We do really appreciate the contributions that have come in so far and we're hoping to get closer to our goal of 150k this fall; we're at about 60% of that goal. If you're able to contribute it will make a big difference. Previous generations of LaSallers paid for previous updates; now it's time for this generation to pay it forward.

I also want to give you a quick mid-year financial update. As of August 31, LSC expenses were $46,000 under budget (and $146,000 less than last year at this time), which is excellent news. Church staff has done a good job managing expenses so far this year.  Giving is under budget by $37,000, which is not unexpected. Giving is always hard to predict throughout the year, especially during the summer months. In the end, the people of this church always come through. 

Cornerstone Center, which has its own separate budget funded completely by occupants of the building, is doing well. Year-to-date expenses are $30,000 less than expected. Revenue is just slightly below budget.

Finally, you might like to know that we are nearing completion of an independent external review of our 2024 finances. We do this every year as a way of having accountability and confirming solid money management. 

Thank you again for your generosity. This church keeps going because of you. If you're on the fence about the campaign, I hope you'll hop off that fence and help us get closer to our goal before the end of this month. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Karl Lauger
Treasurer