CRSW Board Ended 2024 With New Polices, Committees

The Current River Sheltered Workshop (CRSW) held its regular board meeting on Nov. 18, addressing a range of topics from financial reports to board member changes.

Treasurer Heather Jones presented the financial reports for October, which were approved unanimously. Discussions included the status of the ongoing audit and potential income opportunities for CRSW.

The board also reviewed the current financial status and explored various ideas to enhance revenue streams.

Manager Anthony Thompson reported on the point of sale system’s success, although he noted the time clock system’s underutilization. Efforts are underway to ensure all staff members are proficient in using the time clock, with a staff meeting planned for further training.

Board members addressed changes and new business, also.

The board accepted the resignation of member Sherri Ponder, with Charles Abbott appointed to fill the vacancy.

Additionally, Sarah French was nominated and accepted the role of Vice-President following Ponder’s departure.

The board also discussed the implications of the upcoming minimum wage increase.

In new business, the board approved securing a loan to partially fund a vehicle which is being purchased with the help of a MoDOT grant. The remaining amount will be covered by Ripley County tax monies.

The need for an administrative assistant was also discussed and voted on. The board moved into an executive session to discuss a 90-day review with CRSW manager, Thompson.

After executive session, President Dylan Bradsher affirmed that no discussions from the executive session needed to be addressed in the open meeting.

The board announced plans for the upcoming holiday season and closure schedule.

December Meeting

The CRSW Board convened on Dec. 9, to address pressing operational issues, with a focus on financial corrections, policy revisions, and infrastructure improvements.

The meeting, held via Zoom with Billy Pippin, CPA, included discussions on financial reports and the shelter’s audit status.

Treasurer Jones presented the financial reports for November, which were then tabled due to the need for corrections. The board expects these corrections to be made by the next regular meeting (Jan. 14).

The audit status was also discussed, highlighting the need for accurate financial documentation, and potential income opportunities.

The absence of the CRSW manager was noted, impacting discussions on the HVAC system and other operational matters.

Significant policy changes were proposed, including the suspension of charge cards with Harps and the establishment of a primary fuel charge account at 24/7.

The board also addressed the upcoming minimum wage increase to $13.75 per hour, effective Jan. 1, 2025, ensuring compliance with new wage standards.

Additionally, the board approved a motion to require CRSW drivers to submit their driving records for review.

The board meeting also featured updates from various committees.

The visionary committee, led by Daniel LeBlanc, discussed ongoing projects, including collaborations with Tractor Supply for pallet supplies and potential lawn care initiatives.

Meanwhile, the policy committee saw a leadership change with Abbott stepping in as chairperson following Jones’ resignation.

The grant committee is actively researching potential funding opportunities, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to secure grants to support CRSW’s initiatives.

Several topics were tabled for future meetings due to a lack of new information. These include the status of signage and the development of a Community Needs Assessment plan by the visionary committee.

The absence of CRSW manager led to the tabling of the December 2024 manager’s report.

The CRSW Board meetings are open to the public and take place on the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., at 112 Fisheye Lane in Doniphan.