GMC Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

The GMC Board of Directors meets quarterly, and minutes from their meetings will be posted here. To learn more about GMC’s Board, go here.

Jump to:

December 2025 Board Meeting
September 2025 Board Meeting
June 2025 Board Meeting
March 2025 Board Meeting
December 2024 Board Meeting
September 2024 Board Meeting
June 2024 Board Meeting
March 2024 Board Meeting

December 2025 Board Meeting Minutes

December 18, 2025, Zoom

Present: Don Taylor, Robert Paquin, Nancy Thomas, Anne Houser, Nancy McClellan, Jeff Wehrwein, Susan Tobin, Michele Kupersmith, Andy Hood, Melissa Reichert, Hubey Folsom, Becca Washburn, Bruce Peacock, Cathi Brooks, David Hartman, David Hathaway, Kip Potter, Mark Harvey, Mike Peckar, Nika Meyers, Phyllis Rubenstein, Ryan Robbins, Lauren Bierman

Guests: Herb Ogden, Ruth Hare

Staff: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Jason Buss, Mollie Flanagan, Lorne Currier

Meeting called to order at 9AM by Don Taylor. He began with a reminder about the GMC mission and land acknowledgment.

Anne H was introduced to present the minutes from the September Board meeting. Nancy T made a motion to accept the minutes; Bob P seconded the motion. All in favor with David Hartman abstaining.

Nancy T presented the treasurers report. She thanked the staff for their careful management to address the budget challenges in FY25. So far, this looks to be a normal year with no big variances in budgeted items. Noting good revenue from sales and programs and expenses in line with expectations. The GMC endowment fund is showing good returns. Nancy T is happy to report on a thriving and healthy club.

Don T thanked the GMC Board for their service. He remarked that the improved visitor center is proving it’s worth in providing a valuable space for meetings, programs, etc. He is confident that the 10% carve out from development gifts has allowed for continued growth in the organization.
Protection of the Long Trail is ongoing. A special thanks to the capable and dedicated staff for their work.

Mike D gave a summary of the Executive Director’s report included in the board meeting packet. December is a transitional time, post field season, to plan for the coming year. Important work focusing on the strategic plan is ongoing. He plans to continue to build on present strengths with good planning, hard work, and strong leadership.

Jason B presented the finance report. We are halfway through fiscal year ‘26 with revenue and expenses on track at @65% of budget. Jason B thanked Keegan for good work and good financial returns on field work and contracts this past year. Noted variances include lower revenue in membership and additional expenses with staff salaries. Overall, Jason reports good financial footing for the year.

Don T thanked Jason for his work.

Alicia D was introduced to report on membership and development. She noted that unrestricted giving has shown marked increase in the last ten years, from 300k in 2014 up to 900k in 2025. Cost for personnel is also up in order to produce and manage the resulting contributions. There is still a need to expand basic membership, but hoping the new data base will help the department to be more intentional about accessing larger numbers of basic level member/donors ($100 – $250). Alicia D and staff will continue put the time in to support donor base and thank yous.

Planned giving is longer range in response and harder to predict. Some contributions may reflect multiple years of conversations with the donor. $296k was added to the endowment this year through bequests. Membership renewals will go out to 6,500 households in the near future and she will be working to expand that number going forward. Currently, the club has 9,000 members

Don T asked Jeff W to report on the progress of the Governance Committee. Jeff reiterated that there are 3 major categories for review.

Legal/ practical
Board size/ structure
Section governance

The list of legal and practical recommendations is long with many simple changes of titles, term limits and procedure. Jeff W. presented proposed by-law changes for discussion. GMC Committee rules and structure are also being reviewed with regard to voting and representation.

The board size and structure changes continue to focus on a reduction in board size to improve function. Best practice guidance suggests 15 members.

Specificities around the mix of GMC section representatives and general board members serving on the board is a major topic of debate. An established GMC Section Committee would supplement the full roster of section reps currently serving as board members. In this proposed format only a few appointed section representatives would sit on the board with the Section Committee filling the major role of communication with GMC staff and GMC board.

The Governance Committee is reviewing GMC section structure to address fiduciary responsibility and liability concerns. The plan is to merge most sections into a fiscal sponsorship model under the GMC umbrella. Alternatively, any GMC section could maintain a 501c3 non-profit status. Discussion ensued about more new members being assigned to their local sections in an effort to strengthen the ties with the main club. Alicia D stressed that the GMC has exclusive fiduciary responsibility to manage donations and distribute funds to the sections.

Jeff W remarked on next steps in timeline:

Governance Committee will meet and review notes next month
Final governance review recommendations will be brought to the GMC Board meeting in March.
Final vote on Governance changes at the Annual meeting in June 2026. Requires a floor vote with at least 2/3 of members voting to accept.

Mike D thanked Jeff W for his work on the Governance Committee. Mike D is hearing from members that governance recommendations are supported with some changes and that the club is headed in the right direction.

Don T asked Mollie F to report on conservation. She remarked that the field season was a success with main goals for the season accomplished including maintaining boundary lines on a significant portion of the LT corridor. The Strategic Conservation Plan was met. Mollie F was able to secure 100% of the matching funds for the grant. She is working up a slate of prospective projects for next season.

Don T reported on Nominating Committee work. The committee has identified candidates for all GMC officer roles. Some Executive Committee positions remain open. He is asking for names to suggest for open positions and also for Lifetime Members honorees.

Don T asked for a motion to adjourn. David Hathaway made the motion to adjourn at 11:14 AM. Andy Hood seconded. All in favor.

September 2025 Board Meeting Minutes

Present: Don Taylor, Nancy Thomas, Bob Paquin, Anne Houser, Jeff Wehrwein, Rebecca Washburn, Philip Werner, Marge Fish, Hubey Folsom, Andy Hood, Mark Harvey, Michele Kupersmith, Owen Rachampbell, Bill Lyons, Melissa Reichert, Bruce Peacock, Phyllis Rubenstein, Susan Tobin, Nancy McClellan, Lauren Bierman
Zoom attendees: Kip Potter, Cathi Brooks, Mike Howson, Francis Guarascio

Staff: Mike Debonis, Keegan Tierney, Nigel Bates, Lorne Currier, Alicia DiCocco

Meeting called to order at 9am by Don Taylor. Don began with a land acknowledgement followed with an icebreaker exercise.

Don asked GMC Secretary Anne H to present minutes from the June GMC Board meeting for approval. Owen R made a motion to accept the minutes as written. Nancy T seconded the motion. Andy Hood asked that his name be added to those present on 6/14/25. All were in favor of accepting the minutes.

Don requested that Nancy T provide the Treasurer’s report. Nancy T remarked that the club is on solid financial ground with the FY 25 budget revisions. Revenue is positive with good contributions and sales revenue. Federal funding has continued on schedule for now. Expenses in personnel have increased while office and supply expenses are down. The GMC was able to reduce their tax burden by appealing to remove the Winooski footbridge on the Long Trail from their holdings.
The endowment continues to grow apace with the stock market. The club avoided borrowing from the LOC this year and reduced interest expense. Thanks to the staff for their work and to Don T for his leadership. She stressed the importance that all board members participate in Long Trail Day on September 20th and consider a contribution to the GMC Board team.

Don T presented his president’s report. He emphasized the excellent work of the GMC staff. He also called out board leadership ahead of Long Trail Day helping to meet fundraising goals. He listed the following examples of recent staff achievements:

Alicia D leading the change in database management with Bloomerang
Keegan T managing major AT/LT trail relocation on Southern border
Mollie F work added an additional 300 feet of protected Long Trail along the Deer Camp property
Jason B and Nancy T for leadership implementing essential budget revisions for FY ’25
Chloe M producing Long Trail News

Don T commented that he had the opportunity to attend an ATC gathering in MD this year. He came away from that event with renewed appreciation for the full-time paid staff, GMC board and section leadership that are integral to GMC.

Don mentioned all the hard work underway on the Governance Committee under the stelar leadership of Jeff W. Undergoing changes in governance structure will be difficult, but necessary to meet liability and fiduciary responsibilities. Major issues to resolve include reducing GMC Board size, updating bylaws and establishing a model for section governance.

Mike D offered his Exec Director report reflecting on the past year dealing with budget shortfalls and political uncertainty. He is confident that the club is headed in the right direction and has managed to make timely and necessary improvements.

Mike then presented the finance report for Jason who is on leave. First 1/4 of this fiscal year shows normal activity. Expenses are higher at this time of the year prior to expected fall revenue stream. The new database implementation has been a lot of work but is timely and necessary. Positive revenue in sales, workshops, and cabin rentals.

Personnel expenses have increased in correlation with new staffing positions and seasonal contract work. Supply expenses are reduced with completion of lumber heavy projects. Vehicle expenses are higher because of the ongoing problem of maintaining aging equipment. The club continues to save money by maintaining a cash reserve and avoiding the expense of borrowing from the LOC.

Jeff W. was given time to update the board on governance work before a small group breakout session to provide information and discussion on specific governance issues. Jeff W reminded the board that the governance review and changes were a part of the approved 2023 Strategic Plan. Mike D commented that it has been 10 years of change since the last review. The club is managing increased complexity and greater capacity than in previous decades. Funding through grants and fees and endowments have doubled.

The Governance Committee has set a timeline to develop recommendations and address issues by year end 2025. Vote to present/approve changes to By-Laws at the March board meeting, with a full vote at the Annual Meeting in June. Updates will follow legal requirements and best practice guidelines.

Jeff W outlined the recommended changes as follows:

Clarify and simplify membership specifics
Clarify officer roles and stipulate term limits
Standardize the GMC Section structure to address fiduciary responsibility and liability
Change and improve to fit GMC’s legal framework
Section bylaws should match GMC bylaws
Update board requirements for representation and operational needs:
Update conflict of interest policy
Update committee representation and voting power
Change/reduce board size and structure to avoid leaving the Exec Comm to be the defacto governing body
Allow for effective section representation at board level
Proposed GMC Board changes share the goal of creating a working team with broad expertise and enough manpower to share the workload effectively

Don T followed with a thank you to all present and on ZOOM for the engaging discussions. Getting input on these topics is invaluable. He added that in the interest of time that the professional staff reports would be bypassed today.

Don T called for any new business before adjourning. Hubey F wanted to bring attention to the heavily impacted southern sections of the AT/LT. He sees a lot of deferred maintenance on shelters and tent platforms.

Don asked for a motion to adjourn at 11:43 am. Philip W made the motion. Susan T seconded. All in favor.

June 2025 Board Meeting Minutes

Present: Nancy McClellan, Nancy Thomas, Don Taylor, Anne Houser, Jeff Wehrwein, David Hartman, Marc Vincent, Mike Howson, Bob Paquin, Michele Kupersmith, Susan Tobin, Phyllis Rubenstein, Melissa Reichert, Owen Rachampbell, Mike Peckar, Cathi Brooks, David Hathaway, Bill Lyons, Kip Potter, Bruce Peacock, Ellen Cronin, Philip Werner; Hubey Folsom on ZOOM
Staff: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Keegan Tierney, Mollie Flanagan, Jason Buss

Meeting called to order at 11:43 by Nancy M with intro and ice breaker. Anne H. asked for a motion to approve the minutes from 3/15/25 for approval. Owen R made the motion and David Hathaway seconded. Motion passed. Ellen Cronin abstained. Nancy T. gave an update on financial status. Federal funding is still uncertain. At this point expenses are being managed conservatively. Nancy M. introduced new members of GMC Board: Marc Vincent and Philip Werner. Nancy M. reported that board surveys were sent out with a too small percentage filled out and returned. There were some recommendations for updates to the format to add “not sure” on answer options. She added that it is the responsibility of the board to respond and would hope for better participation in the future.

Mike D was asked for his director report and yielded his time to Alicia D. for development updates. Alicia D announced that Rhonda Forcier, her recently hired development manager has helped the department update systems and develop new core initiatives. A new database system for outreach and membership development is being implemented. A new website is in the works and will replace the (10 years) old one with better accessibility and donor security. The more userfriendly website will be in place to promote Long Trail Day this year. A new summer campaign to create more awareness of the GMC and Long Trail relationship will center around planned Camels Hump Mountain hikes. Local marketing at events, micro-advertising, and social media influencers will be used for outreach.

Nancy M introduced Jason B to present financial reports. Jason reported a surplus for the fiscal year end of 87K. This is a strong finish for a challenging financial year. Income was 103% of the budgeted revenue with contributions and program revenue up for the year. The revenue included a 300k endowment distribution earmarked for special projects. Expenses were at 101% of budget reflecting savings in personnel due to unfilled positions and a slight increase in equipment and office categories. Healthcare costs continue to rise and will add to overall expenses for personnel. Property and facility line items are trending down now that the visitor center is
finished. Jason listed assets at fiscal year end:

Endowment: $8 mil
Property and equipment: $4.7 mil
Land and easements: $2.9 mil
Cash and inventory: $1.9 mil

The 2026 fiscal year will require good basic management on a tight budget. Jason has made sure to build a buffer into the budget to address rising costs and
uncertainties from funding sources. Nancy M introduced Mike DeBonis for nominations and the new slate of officers for the year. Mike D asked for a motion to accept officers as listed:

President – Don Taylor
Vice President – Bob Paquin
Treasurer – Nancy Thomas
Secretary – Anne Houser

Motion made by Kip Potter and seconded by David Hartman. Passed unanimously. Don T is happy to accept the role as GMC president and is ready to serve. Don T asked for any new business. The motion to adjourn by was made by Phyllis R. and seconded by David Hathaway.

Meeting adjourned at 12:23 pm. Respectfully submitted by Anne Houser

March 2025 Board Meeting Minutes

Present: Nancy McClellan, Don Taylor, Jeff Wehrwein, Nancy Thomas, Anne Houser, Bill Lyons, Bob Paquin, Hubby Folsom, Phyllis Rubenstein, Michele Kupersmith, Michael Howson, Owen Rachampbell, Tom Kahl, Bruce Peacock, Susan Tobin, Cathi Brooks, Melissa Reichert
Via ZOOM: Ryan Robbins, Mariah Keagy, Nika Meyers, Alexis Peters, Dave Hathaway, Anna Maassel, Dave Hartman
Staff: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Mollie Flanigan, Jason Buss, Keegan Tierney, Rhonda Forcier, Lorne Currier, Kate Songer

Meeting called to order at 9:03 AM by Nancy McClellan in the new GMC headquarters building. Nancy remarked on the magnitude of having this amazing space for our meeting.

Nancy asked Anne H to present the minutes for approval. Bruce P made the motion and Robert P seconded. Discussion to update minutes with some minor spelling mistakes. Anne H agreed to make amendments. Motion passed unanimously.

Nancy M introduced Nancy T for the financial report. Nancy T gave full appreciation to all the staff and especially Jason for the completion of the HQ building. Nancy remarked that, even with the tight financial environment and revised budget, working capital and cash flow have been good. A positive cash flow is expected for FY year end. FY 2026 budget was written prior to current administration in Washington. With 20% of the GMC budget sourced from the USFS, revisions may be necessary. Contracts are in place for a productive field season. The GMC budget has been enhanced with successful fundraising and bequest funding. A request for $45,000 of unrestricted funds from Wissman bequest is planned to cover HQ expenses which ran over the original budget.

Nancy M commented that the GMC is in a strong position despite the recent pandemic, torrential floods and financial uncertainty. The knowledgeable and competent staff at GMC is to be commended. Some major successes this year:

Record participation on Long Trail Day, Bromley Tower completion, timely updates to privies and cabins, established corridor monitoring team, and Burrows Trail rehabilitation.

Mike D offered his perspective on being in the new HQ space. He is reminded of the importance of sticking to your goals and aspirations even in challenging times.
Current state of affairs with US government funding is uncertain. Half of the Long Trail exists on Federal lands. 20% of GMC expenses are covered by two government sources: USFS and ATC. Contractual agreements are approx. 40% of field budget. Signed contracts for $500K are currently in place for 2025. GMC is forging ahead as planned. Contingency plans include prioritizing certain projects or scaling back federally funded work if government funding is reduced.

Keegan T reported that staffing at US Parks and Forest Service offices is diminished. He may be dealing with slower engagement process as office staffing has decreased. Keegan’s operational model going forward will utilize volunteer and field staff as the situation requires. Agreements with USFS are typically 5-year term, currently funding through 2026. Flood recovery funding ($300K) and restricted funds dedicated to the Northern Trail are in place.

Mike D reminded the board that GMC staff are capable of managing uncertain times. Any changes to GMC operational guidelines would come from GMC Board oriented management decisions.

Nancy M asked Jason B to present his financial report. Jason began by restating that escalating costs continue to be a worry, but current year budget is on track and looking to be marginally positive at fiscal year-end. Programs and workshops are trending up. Expenses and personnel costs are down. Surplus at FY25 end of around $9K. Endowment fund is healthy and trending up with the stock market. Overall, the club looks well positioned in a challenging environment with stable cash flow and cash reserve.

FY26 budget is an efficient and well-rounded budget focused on reducing core costs. Budget plans for a $190K surplus to account for uncertain times. FY26 budget is revised to reflect current trends of flat membership proceeds and increased sales and contributions from the Waterwheel grant and the Wissman bequest.
Expenses for FY26 include a 2.2% increase in operational costs. Largest expenditure is personnel with new staffing and increasing costs of employee benefits. Second largest budget expense is Field programs. 68% of staffing costs represent full time positions while 32% of staffing costs are seasonal field workers.
Nancy T asked for a motion to approve FY26 budget as proposed. Jeff W made the motion and Susan T seconded. Discussion about importance of contributions and development work in current environment. Having a healthy surplus in the budget will be important this year. Motion passed with all in favor.

Nancy T made a motion to allocate $45K from Wissman bequest to apply to the remaining budget shortfall to finish the HQ building. Jeff W made the motion and Owen R seconded. All in favor.

Nancy M asked Mollie F to present on land conservation. Mollie is happy to report that she will have a new staff member to serve as Land Stewardship Coordinator so Mollie can devote more time to land protection. The staff position is funded for 2+ years through a grant. Mollie will work on implementation and acquiring matching funds of $162K over 3 years through private donor outreach or added grant funding.

Keegan T was asked to report. Keegan is very happy with the new offices. Summer field season is looking good with a good cohort of returning seasonal staff. Water Wheel grant funds have been made available for climate change sustainability work on the trail system. Keegan asked the GMC board to review the chainsaw policy and protocol for volunteer work. He is working with Velomont Trail group to coordinate overlapping corridors and crossings.
Trail updates:

Mass/VT border LT relocation
Belvedere Mt trail relocation off of private land
Jean Haigh Camp updates
working trail erosion mitigation

Mike D introduced the new GMC Development Manager Rhonda Forcier.

Don T reported that the Nominating Committee is working on designating nominees for next term for the June board meeting. EC officers returning: Nancy Thomas for Finance/Budget and Anne Houser as Secretary. New officers: Bob Paquin is a VP candidate and Don Taylor is candidate for President.
General Director candidates will be announced on line. Honorary Life Members recommended by Nomination Committee:

Tom Candon (GMC Pres. 2019-2021)
Cindy Griffith (Barnes Camp)
Ira Sollace (Barnes Camp)

Nancy T made a motion to accept the list of Honorary Life Members to be awarded with recognition and certificate at the June GMC Board meeting. Andrew H seconded the motion. All in favor.

Nancy M asked for a motion to approve new Bread Loaf Section bylaws. Michael H made the motion, Nancy T seconded. Discussion about making the approval under the umbrella of ongoing governance review and potential need to update by-laws again in the near future. All in favor.

Nancy M reviewed the upcoming schedule of meetings for 2025/26. All set. Nancy M brought up the subject of GMC section websites being hosted individually. GMC is looking into the possibility of having headquarters manage/host websites. A consultant is on board to assist in the process, but extra funding is needed. This effort is just beginning and more information will be made available in the near future.

Nancy M asked for a motion to adjourn. Susan T made the motion and Nancy T seconded. All in favor. Meeting adjourned at 11:15AM

December 2024 Board Meeting Minutes

Present: Nancy McClellan, Don Taylor, David Hathaway, Anne Houser, Jeff Wehrwein, Mike Peckar, Bob Paquin, Cathy Brooks, Bruce Peacock, Dave Hartman, Tom Kahl, Melissa Reichert, Kip Potter, Brett Hodgson, Becca Washburn, Owen Rachampbell, Hubey Folsom, Alexis Peters, Bill Lyons, Andrew Hood, Michael Hobson, Susan Tobin, Ryan Robbins, Mariah Keagy, Phyllis Rubenstein, Michele Kupersmith, Michael Howson, Charlene Bohl, Nika Meyers

Staff: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Keegan Tierney, Jason Buss, Mollie Flanigan, Nigel Bates

Secretary Report: Nancy M called the meeting to order at 9:01 AM. Nancy M asked the Secretary to present minutes from the last board meeting for approval. Anne H asked for a vote to accept minutes from the GMC Board meeting on 9/14/24. Don Taylor made the motion and David Hathaway seconded. Discussion requesting to add attendees who were inadvertently omitted. All in favor to accept minutes with additions.

President’s Report: Nancy M reported that the Governance Committee received survey results from more than 20 GMC board members. A sub-committee of Mike D, Michelle K, and Nancy M have been meeting with an attorney for consultation.

Nancy M was pleased to report that 25 people attended the recent Ridgeline event with Kegan and Mollie presenting. Mike D and Nancy M are currently working on writing the foreword for the new LT Guidebook for release this spring. Nancy M took information from the September board meeting breakout session to prioritize inclusivity imaging/messaging at the Visitor Center and the GMC website. Declaration of Inclusion will also be evident.

Mike D reported that 2024 was a year of major accomplishments. Conservation of GMC lands, construction of the new building, and updating trail infrastructure, privies and shelters along with the completion of the Bromley Tower made for a busy year. Staff work was exemplary.

Financial Report: Jason B presented results from 2024 audit and financial statements. Brett Hodgdon CPA audited of Financial Statements dated 4/1/24. No management disagreements were identified, and the organization was found to be in a sound financial position. The report shows an uptick in income due to grants and contributions. Expenses were generally flat. Balance sheet trends show good management and efficient use of funds.

70% of income goes into programs
16% of income goes into management
13.9% of income is allocated to fundraising

These ratios are in line with standards of other similar organizations. Recommendations:

Continued, stringent policy review
Maximize expense allocations to programs
Maintain practices to detect fraud

Motion to accept audit made by Susan T, 2nd by Owen R, motion carries unanimously. Jason presented financials for 11/30/24 (7 mo of fiscal year). GMC is still in a tight fiscal environment with revenue ahead for November year over year mainly due to grants and contributions. No long term draw or interest expense for the LOC. Return on endowment is good at 18.5%. Expenses are generally on budget.

Keegan T reported on a very successful field season with major projects completed at Burrows Trail, Bromley Tower, Rootville Road, Stratton Pond and the Minerva shelter. Keegan has been exploring the issue of accessibility on the trail. There is complex language and terminology around the concept of access. New VC meets ADA guidelines. Some GMC trails are accessible with adaptive equipment, but it is limited. There is opportunity to develop more understanding and reaffirm the club’s commitment to expanded accessibility. The club could identify areas of potential and partner with other organizations to share manpower and expenses. Cost for building fully accessible trail surface is approx. $125/foot.

Mollie F reported success in actionable effort to support new conservation planning. GMC received a $250k grant with $162K required matching funds ($75k from the Wissman bequest) to focus on implementation of the updated conservation. Timeline to fully implement extends through 2027.

Nancy M asked for a motion to allocate $305k from the Wissman bequest for 5 prioritized initiatives :
1. $25K for Governance retreat consultant
2. $100k for No Trail improvement
3. $75k for Conservation Plan update and implementation
4. $55k for accessibility/sustainability at Wheeler Pond Camps
5. $50k for new website and data base management

Bruce P made a motion to accept the Wissman fund allocation. Bob P 2nd. All voted in favor. Don T reported that the nominating committee is tasked with finding a Vice President and two general directors to fill vacancies. Nancy T will continue as treasurer and Anne H will continue as secretary. Jeff W reported that the Governance Committee has been meeting monthly. The board survey and input from leaders has provided a framework for review of by-laws and board size.

A GMC board retreat is tentatively scheduled for March 15th, 2025. A consultant/facilitator, Andy Robinson, has been contacted. Nancy M asked for approval of current roster of standing committees. New members are needed for membership and governance committees. An informal unanimous vote followed to accept the current list of committees.

Nancy M presented a request from UPPER VALLEY-OTTAUQUECHEE SECTION to change their annual meeting schedule from Oct/Nov to the updated March/April. Susan T made a motion to accept, Tom K 2nd. All in favor. Next GMC board meetings on March 15, June 14. A dedication of the new VC building is on June 15th. Meeting adjourned at 11:37.

GMC Board Meeting Minutes – September 14, 2024

Green Mountain Club Board Meeting
September 14, 2024

Present: Nancy McClellan, Don Taylor, Anne Houser, Dave Hathaway, Nancy Thomas, Andy Hood, Kip Potter, Dave Hartman, Robert Paquin, Tom Kahl, Becca Washburn, Bruce Peacock, Jeff Wehrwein, Michele Kupersmith, Mike Peckar, Ryan Robbins, Alexis Peters, Owen Rachampbell, Bill Lyons, Jake Chinitz, Charlene Bell (Montpelier Section), Hubey Folsom (Brattleboro Section) Cathi Brooks

Staff present: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Chloe Miller, Jason Buss, Mollie Flanigan, Nigel Bates

Meeting called to order at 9am by Nancy M. with welcome, icebreaker exercise and review of agenda.

Secretary: Anne H presented minutes from the June board meeting for approval. David H moved to approve, Nancy T 2nd. All in favor, motion passed.

Treasurer Report: Nancy T remarked on the many challenges this past year. Damaging summer storms once again affected trails and access roads adversely. Inflation and rising expenses required the club to make some difficult choices. FY ‘25 budget was revised accordingly. The Groll bequest funds will help the club avoid LOC borrowing costs. Staff positions/salaries are reduced. First fiscal quarter showed improvement in lowering deficit. Second quarter increase in contributions from larger donors and Long Trail Day proceeds are planned. Health Insurance premiums continue to rise affecting expenses. In order to respond to financial pressures, a new five year stability plan was developed. Increasing contributions annually and capping expenses will assure a more stable financial future. Nancy thanked Mike and his staff for their work.

President Report: Nancy M reported on all of the improvements made this year to shelters, trails, and privies. Field staff were productive this summer.
Large multi-year projects were completed, including construction of Bromley Tower and restoration of the Burrows Trail. Staffing changes required some difficult decisions in order to cut costs. Governance Committee is hard at work. Meeting regularly to update structure and function at the club. Long Trail Day is approaching and everyone is encouraged to participate and/or donate.

ED Report: Mike D is happy to report that in a challenging year, the club has showed resiliency. Lots of great work has been done out in the field and at the new HQ building site. Alicia and Jason have taken on additional responsibilities with the reduction in staff. The new LT Guide is due in Spring ‘25 and will bring renewed interest/income. Now that field season is winding down focus will be on annual giving, nominating committee, and completion of the new visitor center.

Budget and Financials: Jason shared a revised ‘25 budget with changes to improve the club’s financial position. Increase in expenses will be held to 3-5% annually. Reduced personnel eliminating two full time positions, reduced borrowing costs. Less growth budgeted, but contributions increasing 5-10% annually. Five year outlook: will plan to grow surplus with increased income and limiting expenses. Jason asked for a motion to approve the revised FY ‘25 budget. Jeff W made motion, Owen 2nd. No further discussion. All in favor.
Health care costs are skyrocketing and current BSBVT Gold Plan is no longer affordable. Small group nonprofit sector has very few options to pursue. The club will have to choose to reduce benefits or have employees supplement the premium.

Governance Review: Don T commented on his work to update club governance as specified in the strategic plan. Governance committee was formed and has been meeting regularly. Main topics to address are: Board size and composition, Slate of committees and their function, Club sections and by-laws
Long term plan to hire a consultant to assist in the process.

Land Conservation Update: Mollie Flanigan has had a busy summer overseeing 60 plus corridor monitors and 31,000 acres of land. She has added 7 regular volunteers this year and plans to bring on 5-8 more each year. Mollie has facilitated property transfers of two trail adjacent tracts of land to the state of VT with conservation easement. Mollie is working on a GMC strategic conservation plan to be reviewed at the next board meeting.

Field Programs Update: Keegan reports on a productive season with several big projects completed. Good morale in the field crew. Shelters, bridges, trails, privies were improved or replaced. He has submitted for recovery funding to repair more inundated trails and bridges.

Declaration of Inclusion: Nancy M is hoping the club will adopt a version of this statement of inclusivity. Break out groups were to discuss the declaration and ideas for inclusion messaging at the new VC.

Nancy M would like the board to approve a revised list of committees. Mike will send out the proposed list before Dec meeting.

Long Trail Day has had generous donor matches. Nancy encouraged everyone to support this important annual fundraising event.

The next meeting is Dec 14 on ZOOM. The March meeting will be in person.

Motion to adjourn at 11:30 made by Anne H, 2nd by Andy H. All in favor.

GMC Board Meeting Minutes – June 16, 2024

Present: Nancy McClellan (Pres), Don Taylor (VP), Nancy Thomas (Treas), Anne Houser (Sec), Jeff Wehrwein, Melissa Reichert, Michele Kupersmith, David Hartman, Dick Andrews, Cathy Brooks, Phyllis Rubenstein, Andrew Nuquist, Owen Rachampbell, Ruth Hare, Bob Paquin, Susan Tobin, Bill Lyons, David Hathaway, Collier Shutter, Mike Peckar, Greg Alber, Ilana Goll
Via Zoom: Andy Hood, Morris Earl, Alexis Peters, Ken White
Staff: Mike DeBonis, Alicia DiCocco, Jason Buss, Keegan Tierney, Mollie Flanigan

Meeting called to order at 12:00.

Nancy M asked for a motion to accept the Board minutes from March 16, 2024.David Hartman made the motion, David Hathaway 2nd, Motion passed (Dick Andrews abstained) with one correction: Club paid line of credit after borrowing from the Groll bequest.

Treasurer Nancy T reported financial challenges but overall a Productive year. Fiscal year 25 budget is focused on sustainability and less reliance on unrestricted funds. Increased line items include office tech costs and borrowing costs (from delay in fee for service collection). A staff position in the finance department will remain unfilled.

Nancy M thanked outgoing board members and welcomed new directors. Mike provided an update on the new building. It will be a realization of a major long term goal for the club to offer a better space to support staff operations and also to engage with the public.

Finance Report; For end of Fiscal Year 24, Jason reported that expenses outpaced revenue even while contributions are strong and planned giving is up. Budget restraint is needed and will require strong leadership. Wages must stay competitive while continuing to address increased costs for benefits. The club switched financial management systems (Financial Edge to Quickbooks) and updated financial reports will be forthcoming in the fall. Board approval requested for funding as listed below. Motion to transfer from the Groll bequest of $190,000 for VC construction and $160,000 to Working Capital Fund by Dave Hathaway. 2nd by Owen R. All in favor.

Nominating Committee; Don Taylor requested a motion to accept existing slate of officers: Nancy McClellan – President, Don Taylor – VP, Nancy Thomas –Treasurer, Anne Houser – Secretary. Dave Hathaway made the motion, Owen R seconded. All in favor.

Nancy T made a motion to adjourn @12:30. Dick Andrews seconded. All in favor.

GMC Board Meeting Minutes – March 16, 2024

Zoom Video Conference
Present: Caitlin Miller (Secretary), Nancy McClellan (President), Nike Meyers, Michele
Kupersmith, Don Taylor (Vice President), Jeff Wehrwein, Andy Hood, Bruce Peacock, Nancy
Thomas (Treasurer), Millie Mugica, Jake Chinitz, Mike Peckar, Dave Hathaway, Tom Kahl,
Susan Tobin, Owen Rachampbell, Anne Houser, Martha Stitelman, Bob Paquin, David Hartman,
Becca Washburn (VT FPR), Michael Howson, Alexis Peters, Cathi Brooks

Staff Present: Mike DeBonis (Executive Director), Jason Buss (CFO), Alicia DiCocco (Deputy
Director), Keegan Tierney (Director of Field Programs), Mollie Flanigan (Director of Land
Conservation), Lorne Currier (Volunteer Coordinator)

Nancy McClellan called the meeting to order at 9:00 am and thanked board members for their
service. Nancy started the meeting by having board members go to break-out rooms to do ice
breakers. The board came back from break-out rooms at 9:11 am.

Nancy introduced Caitlin to discuss the minutes from the December 2023 board meeting. Caitlin
called for a motion to approve the minutes. Owen moved to approve the minutes, Dave Hartman
seconded. The minutes were approved unanimously.

Nancy M. then introduced Nancy Thomas to give the Treasurer’s Report, which was included in
the board meeting materials. Nancy T. thanked the staff for their hard work over the past fiscal
year and gave an overview of the Club’s finances. Important highlights include the good work of
the Club throughout the devastating floods in July of 2023, receipt of the Weissman Bequest,
and construction on the new Herrick Building.

Nancy M. gave her President’s Report and noted how exciting it is that ground has broken on
construction for the new Herrick Building. Nancy discussed work around the Club’s volunteer
code of conduct and let the board know that the Club is overdue for a review of its governance
policies and bylaws. Board members interested in serving on a committee to review the Club’s
governance should let Nancy know.

Nancy M. introduced Mike DeBonis for his Executive Director’s Report, which was included in
the board materials. Mike used his report to reflect on the past four years since COVID and the
Club’s response to changes brought on by the pandemic. There was a question about the
Club’s discussion with the Odanak Tribe.

Jason then led the board through a slide presentation about FY24. Projections show a year-end
operating surplus of $35,000 thanks to funds from the Weissman Bequest. Revenue sits at
about 90% of budget, with contributions being up. Expenses are also at almost 90% of the
budget. The Club is not borrowing any of its line of credit and the endowment was at $7.4 million
as of the end of February. There was discussion about increased workers compensation costs
and GMC merchandise.

Jason then led the board through a slide presentation of the proposed FY25 budget. GMC’s
operating revenue has continued to grow over the past decade or so (with COVID as an
anomaly) and does so in FY25, too. Fee for service has been the biggest driver of increased
revenue. Expenses are proposed to increase slightly in FY25 as the Club continues to grow its
slate of work for the 2024 and 2025 field seasons. Salaries and wages continue to be the Club’s
largest expense. The draft FY25 has been recommended by both the Budget & Finance
Committee and the Executive Committee. Questions focused on the increased projected
revenue for membership and hiring for seasonal staff.

Nancy Thomas asked for a motion to approve of the FY25 budget. Anne Houser moved, Susan
Tobin seconded. The FY25 budget was approved unanimously.

Mike then gave an update on construction for the Herrick Building rebuild and new visitor center.
The original construction timeline was delayed due to flooding and contractor availability. The
original budget for the build was $1 million as part of the Long Trail Legacy Campaign. The build
budget was created in 2019 and costs have since increased, with the current estimated cost
between $1.3 and $1.5 million. Staff are working to get costs down. Inflation of labor and
materials are the main drivers behind the increased cost. The board is being asked to approve
$310,000 from the Weissman Bequest to be used for the additional costs of the build. The
recommendation is based on the high interest rates for mortgages, making that option a
potential larger expense for the Club.

Nancy M. moved to approve the request to use $310,000 of the Weissman Bequest for
construction costs. Owen seconded. There was discussion about the design change from a
stick frame to an insulated panel build, why the request is not for the potential $1.5 million and
where the additional ~$200,000 will come from, and the timeline in terms of completing the
building now (completion is expected in the fall). Nancy called the motion. The motion was
approved unanimously.

Nancy M. and Mike asked for questions from the board about the department updates, which
were included in the board materials. There was discussion about the communications plan for
the Long Trail Guide updates, the conditions of the trails given the early mud season and warm
winter, GMC messaging about the upcoming solar eclipse, and the status of Cooper Lodge.
Nancy M. called for a break at 10:17 am. Nancy reconvened the meeting at 10:30 am. Alicia
gave an overview of the development, communications and membership departments via a
slide presentation. The presentation gave the board updates on these departments as well as
their direction post pandemic and capital campaign. Discussion focused on messaging in
external places/ info sources and the Club’s connection with the North Country Scenic Trail and
other trail organizations.

Nancy M. then led the board through a discussion about the direction of the Club’s diversity,
equity, and inclusion work. Nancy solicited feedback and ideas from the board vis a vis what
actions they would like to see from the Club. The board went into break-out rooms to review the
DEI-related items in the strategic plan and discuss. The board went into break-out rooms at
10:50 am. The board returned from break-out rooms at 11:08 am. Notetakers should send their
notes to Nancy M. or Mike.

Nancy M. introduced Don to give an update from the Nominating Committee. Both Ram
Moennsad and Jeff Wehrwein have agreed to run for second terms. Melissa Reichart and Ryan
Robbins have both agreed to run for first terms as general directors. The election will run in the
upcoming Long Trail News and the new directors will begin at the June board meeting.
Nancy again invited interested board members to let her know if they are interested in serving
on a committee to review GMC’s governance.

Information on the VT Declaration of Inclusion was included in the board packet. Nancy was
approached about the GMC aligning with/signing the declaration. Several other nonprofits have
already signed on, along with many towns.

Nancy then reviewed the proposed future board meeting and Executive Committee meeting
dates that were included in the meeting packet. Nancy asked for a motion to approve the
proposed meeting dates. Don moved, Susan seconded. Jeff suggested doing an online poll in
the future to determine meeting dates. The dates were approved unanimously.

Dave Hathaway moved to adjourn, Martha seconded. The meeting adjourned at 11:28 am.
Back to top ↑