Exploring options for the administration building

A Synodical Council task force is exploring all options in addressing the recent setback in plans to relocate the synod's administration building.

Here is a brief review of the situation. Earlier this year, the synod reached an agreement with a developer to sell the current administration building on Mayfair Road in Milwaukee, Wis., for $2.82 million. The sale was to be finalized in January of 2012, but the developer had until Nov. 4 to perform “due diligence” in making arrangements for rezoning and financing. When the offer was accepted, the Synodical Council authorized the purchase of a newer building in Pewaukee, Wis., for $2.85 million. The building was a perfect fit for our office needs, and we received an exceptional price on the property. That purchase was finalized last summer and tentative plans were made to move to the new building in December.

At the end of the due diligence period, the developer who had agreed to purchase the current building withdrew from the purchase agreement after concluding his planned project for the site was not financially feasible. This resulted in the synod now owning two buildings.

A task force was appointed by the Synodical Council to explore all options available to remedy this situation. Those options include renewed efforts to work with the city and interested developers to sell the Mayfair Road building. In addition, the task force will also be considering the possible sale of the Pewaukee property.

Obviously, it is not desirable for the synod to be holding two properties. However, we do have reserves that allow us to hold the two properties for a time without using any mission offerings to pay for this. The task force will consider all options carefully in an effort to arrive at a recommended course of action that will best serve the needs of the synod in the long term. The full Synodical Council will make any final decision.

Vacant positions
Two important administrative positions are currently vacant. The process to fill the positions of Director of Human Resources and Director of Communications has begun. Updated position descriptions for both positions will be made available after a review by the Conference of Presidents in December.

The duties of both of these positions have been temporarily reassigned to other staff members. We are working to ensure that the services provided in both areas will continue without interruption. Please note that the WELS Connection segments for January through April 2012 are being completed this month and will soon be distributed to congregations.

Advent preparation
As we prepare our hearts and homes for the Advent of our King, we direct our thoughts and worship to the One who came as one of us to redeem fallen mankind, and to the One who will come again in the clouds with all power and glory as the King of kings and Lord of lords. God’s richest Advent blessings to you all!

Serving in Christ,
Mark Schroeder