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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-09-18 MINUTESAirlie Gardens Foundation September 18, 2025 Board Meeting Agenda Eric Blaesing, Chair Shane Johnson, Vice Chair John Russ, Treasurer Nikki Bascome, Secretary Tara Duckworth, Director of Parks & Gardens MISSION To preserve Airlie Gardens in perpetuity as an outstanding, historic public garden with programs developed to serve New Hanover County residents and other visitors. September 18, 2025; 8:30 am: Airlie Cottage Call to Order and approval of the August minutes: Eric Blaesing Chair’s Report: Eric Blaesing FY 2025 Audit Report- Earney & Company Treasurer’s Report: John Russ Financial Update for period ending August 31, 2025 Director’s/Operations Report: Tara Duckworth & staff Other Business: All Board Members Next Meeting: October 16, 2025 ASSEMBLY The Airlie Gardens Foundation Board met in regular session at the Airlie Cottage on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. Present: Eric Blaesing, John Russ, Charlie Rivenbark, Sandra Ray, Ted Davis, Jr., Beverly Erwin, Tia Saffo Excused: Teddy Davis, Shane Johnson, Rob Zapple, Nikki Bascome, and Josh Rosenberg Staff: Andy Johnson, Jodi Rich, Tara Duckworth, Scott Childs, Latashia Smith, and Janine Powell Guest: Justin Burgess – Copley Investments WELCOME AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES. Eric Blaesing called the meeting to order. He asked everyone if they had a chance to review the minutes and if there were any changes. Hearing no changes, the following motion was presented: MOTION: Charlie Rivenbark MOVED: John Russ SECONDED; that the minutes of the July meeting be approved. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chair’s Report Eric Blaesing announced that Justin Burgess of Copley Investments will present the second-quarter endowment investment review. He also shared that September will be Tara’s final meeting prior to her retirement at the end of the month. Earney and Company is scheduled to present the audit results at the next meeting. In October, the board plans to meet in the classroom at the Airlie Garden Services Center. Following that meeting, members will tour several areas of the gardens identified for capital improvements. Eric noted that the tour will provide valuable context for the board regarding the funding requests submitted by staff. Treasurer’s Report. John Russ reviewed the July 2025 financials for Airlie Gardens Foundation. Highlights Concert revenue and expenses will be analyzed as a whole after concert season has ended. Gate revenues set another record - highest July revenue Merchandise (gift shop) revenue also set a record - highest July revenue Membership revenue is higher than last year due to the purchase of the member gifts - cooler totes Sod was replaced on the bridal walk. The Foundation obtained Directors' insurance as well as Workers Comp. insurance for FY2026. Unrealized gain in the Endowment was $182K. Investment Review. Justin Burgess of Copley Investment Management presented the following second quarter investment review for the Airlie Gardens Foundation. / / Director’s Report. Tara reported that the ticket agents are now employees of the Airlie Foundation. They are insured and the Foundation is registered business with employees. Payroll software has been acquired to facilitate processing. Jodi ensured that they retained access to county email to remain informed of ongoing communications. Scott reported that preparations are underway to begin training Ranger (new “goose dog”). Riley will serve as a mentor, and Ranger has learned basic commands such as “sit” and “lie down.” Julie has submitted a check request to cover the training costs, and once processed, training is expected to begin within the next few weeks. Jodi reported that the final concert of the season will take place on September 5. She also noted that upper-level member tickets for the Oyster Roast, scheduled for October 17, are currently on sale. Other Business. None Next Meeting: September 18, 2025 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the following motion was presented: Sandra Ray MOVED; John Russ SECONDED; that the meeting be adjourned. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The meeting adjourned at 8:47 a.m. Respectfully submitted, / Latashia Smith Administrative Coordinator -Please note that the above minutes are not a verbatim record of the New Hanover County Airlie Gardens Foundation Board meeting.