New Building Q&A

Many of you may have questions about the new building location we are considering. Hopefully we have answered your questions below.

Why not stay in the school?

While HISD has been extraordinary to work with, they have limitations on how long they can lease their buildings to us. Additionally, we believe that we are called to reach the city of Hutto and having a permanent building will assist in attracting visitors.

Why not buy land and build? Wouldn’t that be easier?

By using a current building and doing a lease to purchase it allows us to move much more quickly with much less up front money required. This building also allows us to be in the “heart” of Hutto which would be difficult without using an existing building.

Why lease to purchase versus just leasing like we currently do?

The lease for the building will be for five years. On January 1, 2016 we then have the opportunity to purchase the building for an agreed upon price. This arrangement gives us the opportunity to have equity in a building as we move forward versus continually leasing. It does, however, require a down payment which will be put towards our purchase. The overall cost of the lease/purchase option is comparable to the lease-only option that was offered. Thus we have maximum flexibility with little additional cost.

What does this building have to offer?

  • 8600+ square feet
  • It is estimated that the building could be remodeled to fit Sunday worship of about 300-350 with classrooms for children’s ministry
  • It is a metal shell that can be added on to if needed in the future
  • There is a metal building in the back (additional 800-900 square feet) which has been converted into a one bedroom apartment type building with its own bathroom
  • Would be remodeled to serve as an office for staff
  • The building sits on 1.03 acres
  • Unused acreage surrounding it owned by individuals and the city for possible future purchase to allow for growth
  • Paved parking lot currently holds 40-50 cars but has grass areas which were estimated to extend us to roughly 100 spots
  • End street behind the building and a street along the side of the building that can be used for parking
  • Next to the library (not used on Sundays)
  • Building owner’s audio business next door(who also doesn’t use his spots on Sunday and has given us permission for use)

Who can vote and what are we voting for on August 1, 2010?

Voting, per our church’s principles and practice, will be for members of Hill County Bible Church Hutto (must be present to vote). The vote will be giving the elder board approval to enter into the lease to purchase agreement including funding the down payment.

Will there be a giving campaign?

Yes, there will be a giving campaign for both the build out of the building (conversion from a restaurant to a church) and the down payment. This will be further discussed at the business meeting on August 1 at the middle school immediately after church.

When does the lease start?

The board intends to sign the lease soon after affirmation by the body.

When is the deposit due?

The deposit for the lease to purchase agreement is due upon signing the lease.

What are the financial terms of the lease to purchase agreement?

The lease to purchase agreement includes a down payment, monthly payments for 5 years, and a set purchase price at the end of the 5 years. The down payment will be applied to the purchase price. Details of the down payment, monthly payment, and property price at the end of the 5 year agreement will be shared at the business meeting on August 1 at the middle school immediately after church.

When do we move in?

We begin paying the lease on the building no later than January 1, 2011, however, there is a provision in the agreement to move in earlier if the building is ready.

When will the build out/renovations begin?

Planning for the build out is underway and should begin soon after signing the agreement.

Is there a floor plan ready to see?

A floor plan design is currently in the works. We hope to have a draft available to see soon.

Will there be opportunities to help with the build-out?

We will be using both professional contractors and volunteer help during the build-out process, depending on the work needed. If you would like to help, contact Brent Hagen.

Will we be keeping the offices on Exchange?

The plan is for the new building to house both the worship facilities and office facilities. There is an outbuilding on the new property that will likely be used for offices. The lease on the Exchange facility ends in January 2011.