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Good Neighbor Nominations

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It is that time of year when we start thinking about who we will select as our Good Neighbors for 2027.   During the month of October, we ask for nominations from our community.  The final day to submit nominations is Sunday, Nov. 1.

Click here to learn more about our Good Neighbor program.

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

UUCB Board Role As Listener

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Does the title “Listening Presence” sound a bit like an eavesdropper, or the ear of some higher being — or of a “trusted source”, the new term that UUCB is starting to learn about?
Well, it’s not!  As a Board member, one of my roles for the past year and a half has been to listen to — and solicit — any suggestions and concerns that congregants may have about happenings at UUCB. You may recall that Randall Hudson, in this same role several years ago, wore rabbit ears to invite conversations. Playboy “bunny ears” are not quite my thing, but you may have seen me walking around with a smallish sandwich board asking for input. I’m always happy to hear your thoughts.
People have offered many concerns and suggestions, in addition to praise, for the Board. Some messages have to do with church communications, decor, atrium questions, art displays, the roles of various committees and more. Many of these I’ve passed on to our staff, or to groups who oversee those matters.
The Board, particularly in the past few months, is working to separate operations questions, overseen by the minister and staff, from policy or governance issues, to be taken up by the Board. Your “Listener” will direct messages to the people who can address them, very often the staff or relevant committees. If the question is a matter of policy, however, it will be taken to and discussed at the following monthly Board meeting. Do feel free to let me know of any suggestions or questions you may have. Each will be taken seriously and directed to those who can address it. Thank you!
-Helen Toy

September Board News

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UUA General Assembly: Since UUCB is so close to the UUA General Assembly in San Jose in June 2027, a one-year task force will help plan and encourage participation—especially among youth. Melissa Rosales will serve as the main contact.

Capital Projects: A five-year capital projects budget, updated each year, outlines UUCB’s priorities and funding needs. This year’s top projects are new A/V equipment for the Sanctuary and Fireside Room, sidewalk repairs, and improvements to the Social Hall, including doors, lighting, the stage curtain, and tables and chairs. Other projects may move forward as funding allows, including electrifying the Sanctuary and Music Room furnaces and upgrading the fire alarm system if the congregation approves using Board-designated endowment funds.

Freestone property: This church property in Sonoma County has been listed for sale through W Realty.

Bequest: In keeping with Joanne Wile’s expressed wishes, her bequest will become part of UUCB’s permanent endowment, with some annual investment earnings supporting the congregation for years to come.

Board vision focus: To clarify and strengthen its focus on visioning and policy-setting, the Board is reviewing which functions belong in committees that report directly to the Board, and which belong in a more direct relationship to the minister and other staff – while still fulfilling the Board’s general oversight role.  Also underway is Board development of strategic planning to inspire and guide UUCB’s future.

Lunch: The Committee on Shared Ministry reported that, based on survey feedback about Sunday lunches, the menu and clean-up will be simplified except on special occasions – while still making room for conversation and connection.