Highlights of the meetings of the
Executive of Toronto Conference July 4 and September 12, 2007
and meetings of the
sub-Executive July 4, September 4, 6 and 26, 2007

The Executive of Toronto Conference met in a special session on July 4 and a regular session on September 12; the sub-Executive met on four occasions. 

1.  feedback to General Council:  In a special session on July 4 the Executive responded to a questionnaire from the General Council regarding the grants it provides to the Conferences.  A General Council task group has been asked to review the funding formula.  All Conferences have been asked for their input.

2.  Conference/Presbytery restructuring:  The September Executive meeting received up-dates on the restructuring process.  The Commissions on boundaries and assessments, staffing, and the role and composition of the Conference Executive are all working well and on schedule.  A project manager has been hired to work with the Commissions and the steering group.  Carol Paniccia began work in late September.

3.  Other Executive actions – September 12:  The Executive a) heard a report on the on-going discussions related to the future of the Beverley Hills United Church property; b) gave its approval to allow Ina Grafton Gage Homes, Inc. to increase its indebtedness as it constructs its new long-term care facility; c) appointed a number of people to Conference committees; and d) provided advice to the General Council on whether a statement should be issued regarding funding of faith-based schools.

4.  Sub-Executive actions – July 4:  The sub-Executive a) approved the sale of the property of the former St. Paul Pietro-Valdo United Church to the St. Clair West Affordable Housing (Ossington) Group Inc. b) approved the members of the Toronto United Church Council board of directors; and c) authorized the hiring of a project manager for the restructuring process.

5.  Sub-Executive meeting – September 4:  The sub-Executive met at 875 Queen Street East, site of the former WoodGreen United Church.  The purpose of the meeting was to view the site to help determine the future of the property.  The sub-Executive heard from representatives of Toronto South Presbytery and the Trustees of the WoodGreen Trust, and will make a Decision later this fall regarding the property.

6.  Sub-Executive meeting – September 6:  The sub-Executive re-instated a minister who had completed the requirements arising from a Section 363 review.

7.  Sub-Executive meeting – September 26:  The sub-Executive had a discussion about whether Toronto Conference would issue a statement on the funding of faith-based schools.  Having received advice from all Conferences within Ontario, the General Council had earlier decided to not make a statement.  Following consultation with the full Executive, the sub-Executive chose to not issue a statement.

To receive excerpts from the minutes as noted above, please contact Linda Gray at lgray@torontoconference.ca.