Table of Contents

Meeting Minutes for January 3, 2011
- Attendance
- Topics

Meeting Minutes for January 3, 2011

Attendance

19 members
5 guests

Topics

Housekeeping

Introductions
Guests were then asked to sign the Guest Book and offered a tour while the members discussed business matters.
Set a date for missed Makerspace Cleanup/Organization day! The upcoming weekend was chosen.
Later in the meeting, Jason G. asked that members pay their dues by the 7th of the month when they receive invoices.
Invoices will be automated in the coming weeks.

New Stickers

Should we buy more Milwaukee Makerspace Stickers?
- If we do, can we get smaller ones? Sizes discussed.
- It was also suggested that we don't need the QR code.
Quantities were discussed and Ron offered to get a quote before an order is placed.

Voting Rules

Review Makerspace voting rules for important topics: Voting in absentia or by proxy?
The group discussed various concerns and ultimately decided that members will be notified at least one week in advance of important votes via email.
Voting by email will be the primary way for members voting in absentia.

Exploring Non-Profit Status

Benefits of being a non-profit organization (NPO) include tax breaks and the ability to solicit donations more easy.
Sector67 in Madison offers classes and has at least one person in charge of the space full time.
Both Bret D. and Matt N. explained their past experiences working in NPOs and offered their suggestions for pursuing this.
It was noted that tax breaks would likely not absolve us of property taxes if we do not own the building outright.

Public Relations News

Jason G. met with Anne Petersen of Pumping Station One and School Factory last week in Chicago.
Stan Miller from The Journal Sentinel plans to visit the space this Thursday.

Project Updates

Shane shared some CNC router notes for Blender.
Bret D. explained some of the finer details of his future casting furnace project.
- A lot of smoke is generated during the process so it will likely need to be done outside with few neighbors around.
- Both foam and resin-bonded casting were discussed.
- Aluminum and bronze can be a 1-2 man operation for pouring, possibly 3 people.
- Bret plans to fund the furnace and is looking for volunteers to help work on it with him. Several members expressed interest.
- He will need space to store it when not in use.