By Eric Daniels

The Property Administration Committee (PAC) is a committee of the Trustees entrusted with the management, maintenance, and appropriate use of the FAPC properties including the church, church house and the manse.

The PAC has a continuous challenge to meet the needs of a 21st century congregation in a 19th century building while preserving the buildings’ architectural integrity and historical elements.

Members of the committee include individuals from the Trustees, Session and Deacons, with knowledge and experience in architecture, construction, New York City building codes, fire regulations, law, and worship and other activities at FAPC.

The following projects were completed by the PAC during the 2008 – 2009 fiscal year:
•    Two sets of metal and glass double doors and two single metal and glass doors were installed on the 4th and 6th floors of the Church House in compliance with the NYC Department of Building Code’s fire exit requirements.
•    Two new sprinkler heads were installed in the Bonnell Hall Kitchen on the 2nd Floor in compliance with the NYC Department of Building Code’s fire safety requirements.
•    The Manse’s two bathrooms and the kitchen were refurbished along with the floors refinished and walls and ceilings repainted in record time (6 weeks), in time for the arrival of the Black Johnston family.
•    A new energy contract was signed with Con Ed Solutions, which will save FAPC $20,000 annually on our electric bill.
•    A reception desk was placed in the Narthex at Fifth Avenue to allow for a receptionist to welcome an average of 151 visitors per day to view our sanctuary. Over 9824 visitors have entered our doors from April when the reception desk was set up to date.

The last committee meeting of the year was held on June 22nd. However, work does not stop during the summer months.  Derek Maddalena and his team carry out many maintenance projects when there are fewer activities in the summer. The refurbishing of the Manse which required the daily attention of Derek and Eric Daniels, the committee chair, took place entirely in July – August 2008.  Small emergencies such as steam and plumbing leaks can occur at any time and require immediate attention. The PAC will continue its work into the 2009-2010 fiscal year. Thank you for your prayers and support.