Decisions about the Summit

Note: For more current and precise information about The Summit, please consult the diocesan Web site, http://www.episdionc.com/update/index.html.

On May 28 Diocesan Council met to discuss the future of the diocesan camp and conference center, The Summit. During the past several years, The Summit has operated at a deficit that has been covered by diocesan reserves. The reserve funds are nearly spent and the diocese will no longer be able to subsidize The Summit. According to an e-mail message sent by the Summit's Executive Director, John Koch, to members of The Summit Board, the following decisions were made:

• The Summit will spend the next six months working toward the goals identified in the "reduced service" budget. Benchmarks will be identified with regard to occupancy projections, leadership, budget, etc.
• Bishop Curry will appoint a special visioning committee with the task of presenting a report prior to the November council meeting. The report will include specific plans for the future of The Summit.
• We will seek the input of any, and all, parties with a stake in The Summit ... Cursillo, ECW, Youth, Clergy, Board of Visitors, etc. We will be asking if they are willing to support the vision of a new Summit. In other words, "If we keep it, will you support and use it?"
• At the end of the six months (November) all of the data will be analyzed and a decision will be made. If all the benchmarks have been met and we have articulated a vision, we will move forward with the 2005 "reduced service" budget. If all the benchmarks have not been met, then the property will be sold.
• Should the sale of The Summit become our best option, consideration will be given to keeping +/- 50 acres for potential future use. All of the buildings and +/- 150 acres would be sold.

The Rev. Vicky Jamieson-Drake serves on the Board of Directors of The Summit. Please feel free to contact her for detailed information.W