St. Paul’s Steering Committee

Meeting Minutes 4/15/2003

The meeting began at 6:40 PM.

Fr. Gerry joined the meeting this evening.

Greg Toolson and Russ Phillips with JGT/Insight Architects were guest speakers and gave a presentation of preliminary master plan renderings of the church property.  Russ stated that the previous workshops at the church had provided valuable input and that JGT/Insight was starting to “see the vision” of the parishioners.  Greg and Russ wanted to throw out some ideas and receive feedback from the SC.  They presented the group with three different conceptual drawings of how the property could be utilized for all phases of construction.  They took into consideration different variables such as sun orientation, wind direction, scenic views and using the Elijah drain for green space.  Each rendering allowed for a sanctuary with a 1500 person seating capacity and 600 parking spaces.  Also included in each concept was a school for grades preschool – 8th, sports fields, gymnasium, multi-purpose room, cafeteria, day chapel, meeting rooms and church offices.  Central to each illustration was a large circular courtyard that served as entryway into the church and also as a gathering area. 

The SC discussed each conceptual rendering at length and pointed out positive aspects of each one.  Potential problems with in each of the renderings were likewise discussed.  Many wonderful ideas were offered by members of the SC; these were then developed by the architects.  Among the ideas were included: areas for future meditation gardens between the courtyard and the natural drainage (Elijah Drain); spaces for devotional shrines representative of the cultures and communities of St. Paul’s; a “special use” parking lot that was situated very near to the buildings for handicapped access, deliveries, etc.; landscaping within the drainage swale; a striking façade on the south side (apse) of the church visible from Roosevelt; and many others.

The Architects stressed that these renderings should be considered conceptual site master plans and are not necessarily complete or final.  Any one of these or a hybrid of all could be developed into a final master plan.  The Architects will leave the renderings with the church and would appreciate a decision from the SC on which rendering is considered the best starting point for continued master plan development.  All three architectural drawings are available for viewing at the back of the church in the information area during Holy Week.  The SC will select the favored conceptual rendering based on community input and report it to JGT/Insight.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.