Meeting called to order by President Dave Price at 10:30a.m.– quorum (50 members) attained; 103 members were present.
A motion to approve the Nov. 10, 2022, minutes was made by Dudley Gibson (#400), seconded by Terry Griffith (#1675). Motion carried.
Joe reported the club’s finances in checking and money market accounts.
A motion was made to approve the proposed by-law changes that have been posted in the club for the past 3 months and emailed to club members. A motion was made by Chuck Ullbricht (#700), seconded by Jack Lazareck (#1754); all were in favor, none opposed. The bylaws changes were approved.
Election dates for the 2023/2024 Board were reviewed.
Dave reviewed the status of the Blaze and Laguna machines. The Blaze has experienced several operating issues lately and is nearing the end of its useful operation. The Laguna has not worked consistently since purchase in early 2019. Efforts are being made to fix the Laguna with the hope to get the machine to an operational standard. Given these issues, a search for a plasma machine replacement has been conducted over the past months by several members who utilize these machines.
This in-depth review included vendor visits to the club, visits to the Sun City Metal Club to learn about their set-up, and a trip to a local Arclight customer. It is recommended to purchase the Arclight Dynamic Arc Pro 4x4 CNC Plasma Table.
A lengthy discussion took place regarding the pro’s and con’s of purchasing the new machine at this time before the status of the Laguna’s operation is known. Several motions were made, seconded, and seconds withdrawn throughout this very active discussion period.
A motion was made by Jim Filipiak (#2206), seconded by Avis Acton (#840) to purchase the Arclight Dynamic Arc Pro 4x4 CNC Plasma Table for $21K. A hand-raised count resulted in 52 for the motion; 38 opposed. The motion carried. Efforts to repair the Laguna will continue during the next several weeks.
Dave reviewed plans to replace the non-functional horizontal band saw. A replacement saw will be purchased for $4600.
Dave presented several club updates, safety tips, machine operating reminders during his Powerpoint presentation.
Mike Bell presented a petition signed by members to move the grinding tables back inside the building (four tables were recently moved outdoors due to dust, dirt, noise, etc.). Dave asked that these members present their concerns at the next Board meeting.
A motion made by Rik Scairpon (#1722), seconded by Norm Kelln (#452) to adjourn the meeting at 12:10pm was made, all were in favor.
Submitted by Wendi Boos, Secretary
January 17, 2023