What is the reason behind the Observer's Fee to the general Conference? Also have this type fee been accessed at any other general Conference(s)?

-- Anonymous, March 30, 2004

Answers

According to the information presented at Convo 8 in Charleston, SC in February, the Observer's fee is merely a security measure, particularly since the events and aftermath of 9/11 has dictated the same. This measure keeps a count of the number of persons present and pays for the extra security detail that must happen with an event of this size, because this was not budgeted for at the last General Conference because there was "no need." They was a voluntary observer's registration last time which was a last minute effort of the church. This year's registration with a badge allows the observer to enter into the business sessions.

-- Anonymous, March 31, 2004

They want the money. We had to pay an additional assessment to fund the General Conference.

-- Anonymous, March 31, 2004

Normally, after every General Conference, there is a huge amount of money that is owed. I think one year, by the end of the General Conference, several million dollars were owed that were not budgeted for. In addition to security issues, the observers fee underwrites the "unexpected" fees.

-- Anonymous, March 31, 2004

I wonder: Is our General Conference Budget fully Funded or are we into defict spending?

-- Anonymous, March 31, 2004

part of the reason there is a huge defecit post general conference is that many of the delegates bail leaving balances due to the hotel. It is the duty of the districts, who are responsible for payment to balance the books with vendors, lodging, and other expenses. Let's not blame this all on our leadership. We need to begin taking responsibility for some things as well.

I am a member of various international organizations and civic groups. Observer fees is a standard practice.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2004

I think I'll use my $75.00 "observer's fee" to pay my conference claims.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2004