Questions & Answers
Building and Construction
Q - When will we begin construction?
A – A time line will be established following the Campaign. Obviously we need the space, so our plan is to begin as soon as possible.Funding and permitting are the two variables that will determine the swiftness of the process. We estimate that construction will take approximately 12 months once begun.
Q - What are the costs?
A - We estimate overall construction costs at $5 to 6M. We anticipate that $2-$3M of this will be realized through self performance and the donation of skilled and volunteer labor. This leaves us with approximately$3M to raise towards construction costs. Additionally, the land was purchased for $670K. The mortgage for that purchase will be settled upon the sale of our current property. The inclusion of building professionals on our Building Team allows us to plan specifically for this unique process.
In addition to the Moving by Faith Campaign, Cape Cod Church has spent the last few years preparing fiscally for this period of time. Conservative budgets, coupled with a 16% average growth in general income (over 6 years), have allowed us to fund the purchase and permitting process for the land, the building architecture, and will provide the needed funds for our expanded ministry needs regarding space and staffing.
Q - What will happen to our current facility?
A - We plan to sell our current property. The excellent location and relative newness of the facility make it an appealing site for a variety of good uses. While we would welcome conversations with those interested, we have not yet begun to actively market it. The funds from the sale of our current property will pay off our indebtedness ($800K – new land and current facility), with the balance going towards the costs of our new facility. Our current property is appraised at $1.1M
Q - What is the size and scope of this project?
A - This is a sizable project in keeping with our ministry needs. Our initial plans are for approximately 40K sq.ft. of space spread out over two floors. The initial plan is for 500 seats in the auditorium with two Sunday services. This will expand up to over 900 seats as we grow. These numbers were arrived at using our rate of growth and church architecture norms.
Q - How did we select the new site for relocation?
A - We began an intensive search for land in February of 2008.We evaluated over 30 properties brought to us by real estate agents and interested people from within the church. Additionally, we explored many vacant and high potential pieces of land in our search area. We reviewed property against three criteria:
1. Availability - Is the property in question available to be purchased
2. Suitability - Does the property fit our needs -specifically in location and amount of land
3. Cost - The relative value of the land in relation to size, location, and affordability
Campaign and Finances
Q - How do I give to this project?
A - We are asking people to give a “Love Gift” out of what they have been blessed with, and a “Faith Commitment” to spread over the next 3years (weekly/monthly/annually). In the end this is not about “equal gifts”, but“equal sacrifice”.
Q - How and when do we being our three-year “faith commitment”?
A - The three-year commitment would begin on May 9th – the week following our commitment Sunday.
Q - Is this campaign the only way Cape Cod church will raise funds?
A - Our goal is to raise as much of the cost for construction as possible - there by limiting our debt. This will enable us to focus our general funds on ministry efforts as we move into an expanded facility and expanded ministry.
Q - What if I am unable to fulfill my pledge?
A - Our pledge is a faith commitment - not a legal binding contract. Changes in situation and circumstance can always be communicated to the church. We do believe that when we give in faith, God can and will supernaturally provide and we look forward to the many stories of that happening in our midst.
Q - Will my commitment be made public?
A - Absolutely not. We will announce the total amount.We ask for families to make commitments so that our leadership can plan appropriately and communicate with you about our progress towards completion.
Q - Can my gift be given in memory/honor of someone?
A - Yes, many will want to give in honor/memory of another. We are working on a suitable way to acknowledge each gift and those special designations. We have not included that acknowledgment plan at this point because we believe that our ultimate and primary motivation for giving will be out of our love for God and His work. We welcome questions and conversations about this at any point, and will communicate with all of those involved as the project proceeds.
Q - Can I designate my gift to a specific piece of the project?
A - Since the project is an integrated whole, all gifts are given to the whole of the project. However, we would be happy to speak with you about your special areas of interest and how your giving will impact those areas.
Q - What about my regular giving?
A - Your commitment should be over an above your regular tithes and offering. Taking from our current giving would endanger our ongoing ministry efforts.
Q - Can I give gifts of stock or assets?
A - Yes, we have established a stock gifting account for this purpose. There can be significant tax advantage for certain individuals, and our office is prepared to assist in this. For more information contact the church office (508-540-6884) or talk to Campaign Director Bob Ripley or Pastor Ben Feldott.