HomeMy WebLinkAbout03. Museum Board Minutes from March 03, 2016 OSHKOSF;
Minutes of the March 3,2016 Board Meeting
Public M u se u m (Approved at the April 7,2016 Board Meeting.)
Discover • Connect • Inspire
The March meeting of the Oshkosh Public Museum Board was held on Thursday, March 3, 2016,
in the Library of the Oshkosh Public Museum. President Rego called the meeting to order at 4:00
pm.
The roll was taken by Ms. Books.
Present: Present: Excused:
Ms. Fenrich Ms. Matzke Mr.Domer, alternate
Mr. Hoffman, Vice President Mr.Rego,President Ms.Drew, Secretary
Mr.Mack, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Thierman Mr. Loiacono, alternate
Absent:
Mr.Dedow, School Board President
Mr. Haffeman
Also in attendance: Director Brad Larson, City Attorney Lynn Lorenson, Director of Finance
Trena Larson, Museum staff Anna Cannizzo, Debra Daubert, Karla Szekeres, Katrina Achilli,
University student Andrew Smith, and Administrative Assistant Theresa Books recording the
minutes.
Mr. Larson introduced Daniel Evensen and Mike Hochholzer of Associated Bank. They presented
the annual review of the Durow Trust activity for 2015. They reviewed many details of the fund
investments and provided time for questions. Mr. Hochholzer noted that there is a provision
within the Durow policy for capital expenses that would go beyond the annual earnings. Mr.
Evensen and Mr.Hochholzer excused themselves after the presentation.
Consent Agenda items included the following:
A. Minutes of the February Board meeting
B. March Bill List
Ms. Fenrich moved that the Consent Agenda be approved.
Second by Mr. Hoffman.
The vote went as follows:
In Favor: In Favor: Against:
Ms. Fenrich Ms.Matzke None
Mr. Hoffman Mr.Rego
Mr.Mack Ms. Thierman
The vote was unanimous in favor and the Consent Agenda items were passed.
Mr.Rego then requested that Mr. Larson present the Director's Report.
Minutes of the March 2016 Museum Board Meeting
Oshkosh Public Museum■1331 Algoma Boulevard■Oshkosh,Wisconsin 54901
Page 1 of 2
Mr. Larson began his report updating the Board on People of the Waters. Museum staff is deeply
into the schematic phase and a priority now is final artifact selection. As the narrative is refined
and space allocations determined, staff have to pick specific artifacts for each area, and that may
include the possible purchase of Ice Age specimens. Mr. Larson provided a brief overview of
upcoming tasks, including selection of graphics and photographs, and continuing the work of
submitting funding requests. Regarding contracting for the next phase, the Museum can only
sign a contract with Split Rock Studios for the amount of money we have on hand, which is
$400,000 (i.e., $200,000 in capital improvement and $200,000 Durow Trust earnings). Mr. Larson
anticipates having a draft contract done before he leaves on vacation March 18. In conclusion, he
stressed that a long-term exhibition is a big undertaking and a great deal of work remains before
People of the Waters is a reality.
Regarding Be the Dinosaur Mr. Larson reported that as of March 2nd, 3,198 guests have
experienced the exhibition, resulting in $11,696 in admission income and $4,116 in store sales
($15,812 total). The Museum is on track for meeting its minimum goal of $30,000; with
anticipation of total revenues being greater. Mr. Larson pointed out that beyond the numbers
and the income, Be the Dinosaur is important in another way. This exhibition appeals to the key
demographic that was identified as part of the Museum's strategic planning efforts: the
Millennial generation. Surveys indicate that only 13% of the Millennial generation, whether
single or as part of a family, now visit museums. Yet, that is the generation that will be
instrumental in supporting museums. Mr. Larson was pleased to note that thus far the Oshkosh
Public Museum seems to be an exception to the national survey results, due largely to the
selection of exhibitions and evolving presentation techniques.
In conclusion, Mr. Larson reported that the Museum's new Exhibit Technician, Greg Witthun,
starts on Monday, March 14. Mr. Witthun was the Exhibit Technician at the Experimental
Aircraft Association Museum until 2012. He has a great deal of experience and Mr. Larson
believes he strengthens the staff. Mr. Larson will formally introduce him at the April 7 Board
meeting. That concluded the Director's report.
Mr.Rego then requested the Auxiliary Report.
Ms. Shirtz began her report stating that the Auxiliary has begun the process to become a public
charity 501(c)(3). Mr. Larson spoke regarding this, that it is much appreciated and will be
essential for the Museum to be able to request sponsorships and grants through the Auxiliary.
Next Ms. Shirtz reported that Carolyn Bathel's son, Kevin, will be the speaker at the March
meeting, and the Auxiliary is looking forward to his presentation. In conclusion, Pie on the
Lawn plans will begin soon.
With no other agenda items Mr. Rego asked for a motion to adjourn. Ms. Thierman so moved
and Ms.Fenrich seconded the motion.
The vote was unanimous in favor and the motion was passed.
The meeting adjourned at 4:40 p.m.
Minutes of the March 2016 Museum Board Meeting
Oshkosh Public Museum■1331 Algoma Boulevard■Oshkosh,Wisconsin 54901
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