Looking ahead: Key priorities
Stewarding the Chautauqua's future
Dear Stockholders,
I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as President of the Chautauqua Board of Managers. I'm excited to connect with you and share some key priorities for the year ahead.
Staying Connected
New Digital Newsletter: We're launching a newsletter to keep you up-to-date on Chautauqua happenings and celebrate the wonderful people, activities, and events in Mount Gretna. Watch for an email from chautauquatalk@substack.com, in the next 24 hours, with more details. (If you don't see it soon, you may want to check your spam folder.) With this newsletter, we will start small—but see bigger potential. Want to contribute? Writers can reach out to gretna1892@gmail.com.
Upcoming Meetings:
Walking Tour (Date TBA): Bill Care will lead a tour of commonly owned Chautauqua and Mount Gretna Authority properties and infrastructure.
Land Preservation Meeting (Date TBA): We'll discuss preservation of commonly owned Chautauqua properties, including the 18 acre area on the south side of Mount Gretna. Keep an eye on future newsletters for details.
Financial Transparency
Addressing the Deficit: As discussed at the stockholder meeting, we have been operating at a deficit and dipping into savings. We'll address this in the 2025 budget while ensuring transparency with a "plain English" financial summary (coming soon!) and sharing the final budget once set.
Long-Term Vision
Your Input Matters: The Long Range Planning Committee is developing a strategic plan and wants your feedback! Watch for a survey about your Mount Gretna experiences and hopes for the future. We'll continue gathering input through surveys and community meetings as the strategic plan progresses.
Board Meetings
Improved Virtual Option: We've invested in better audio equipment for virtual meetings, based on your feedback. Please keep sharing your thoughts on the virtual experience.
Speaking Opportunities: Consistent with past practice, stockholders can address the board during "recognition of visitors" section of board meetings (limited to 3 minutes per person).
Committee Updates: We'll announce approved committees and chair contact information following the September meeting. Feel free to reach out to committee chairs with specific concerns. Additionally, I'm always available to meet with any stockholder regarding Chautauqua matters. Please reach out to me at jgcassel@comcast.net or 717-926-1914.
Moving Forward Together
These changes take time, and we appreciate your patience and support. We're committed to a vibrant future for the Chautauqua!
Kinds regards,
Jim Cassel President, Chautauqua Board of Managers