Call to Order: at 12:10pm by President Richard Meeker

Introductions: President Meeker introduced members of the Board of Directors who were present.

Annual Reports: Executive Manager, Don Hunjadi presented the Annual Financial Report. Public Relations Director, Joe Covelli, gave the Membership and Growth/Sales Report (see report). Don Hunjadi reviewed how to become a Board member and encouraged all eligible members present to consider applying.

Strategic Plan: President Meeker reviewed the Strategic Plan as determined by the Board of Directors.

Old/New Business

Building Project: Don Hunjadi gave an update on the current status of the building project.  The project is being investigated based on a 3,000 sq. ft. building that would serve as a central organization headquarters.  The location being looked at is on the Hwy 36 corridor in a fast growing area.  The building would be able to centralize all association activities, as well as provide an income by renting part of the building to an outside agency.  At this time, preliminary investigation is taking place.

Questions from members included:

1. Why was that location determined?  ANSWER: To accommodate current employees as well as building in an area that could produce a better resale value.
2. Was renting vs. purchasing investigated?  ANSWER: With the association financially healthy, purchasing was the better choice.
3. Can we retain our tax-exempt status if we lease out a portion of the building?  ANSWER: Yes we can.

Telephone Recruitment/Fund Raising: Don Hunjadi reported that a company that offers their services for telephone recruitment and fund raising contacted the Association.  He explained the concept and asked for input from those in attendance.    

Comments included:

1. Confusion as to where any funds would go.
2. General dislike for telemarketing and would not want the association’s name affiliated with this type of practice.
3. Potential burden placed on local departments who already request funding from their local residents (i.e.brat frys, picnics, etc.)
4. How would potential interested persons be screened?

After hearing all comments an advisory vote was taken with the majority voting no to the telephone recruitment/fund-raising concept. The item was referred back to the WEMSA Board.

Items from the floor: There was interest in having another recruitment drive in 2006.  The Board will look into the possibility and location for this activity.

A request was made asking the Wisconsin EMS Association to help services educate their local officials regarding department requirements, rules and regulations and need for education.  The Board will look into the possibility of assisting services in this area.

Adjournment: Motion made, seconded and carried to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 1:08 PM.