BHBE Property Update
Letter sent to the congregation August 28, 2024:
Dear BHBE Congregants,
It is with excitement and a view toward the future that we celebrate together a historic moment in the history of our congregation. Today, August 28, 2024, we officially closed on the sale of our property at 3220 Big Tree Lane in Wilmette to the Wilmette Park District. This is truly a Shehecheyanu moment for us all.
To listen to Cantor Roytman recite the Shehecheyanu, please click here.
As we take the next steps on our congregational journey toward securing our future home, we must look back with deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of so many. At the same time, we are grateful for the opportunity to move forward together.
Our central rabbinic wisdom literature teaches that we should encounter the world with a cheerful countenance. That mission is made more accessible, especially during the challenging times we face right now, when we approach the future with excitement and a sense of renewal.
Getting to this point has been a journey filled with emotion and hard work. In 2020, we first discussed creating a strategic plan in partnership with the United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism. The strategic plan was presented in 2022; however, the process did not end with the final report. Indeed, our lay leadership implemented the plan with fidelity.
One clear goal of the plan was to free ourselves from the financial burden that our building imposed upon us. In 2023, we agreed to move forward with the building sale with a 97 percent vote of confidence from the congregation. After evaluating many proposals, we selected a realtor to represent us. Ultimately, we decided to accept our highest and best offer from the Wilmette Park District.
While much work remains, we are confident that we will secure a new home for our beloved congregation. At the same time, we are working to create a sustainable budget and investment philosophy that will carry us generations into the future.
We are committed to complete transparency about our finances, which are discussed at our monthly board meetings. Board meetings are open to all congregants. For more information, please visit our board webpage at https://www.bhbe.org/board-of-
We welcome you to join us in our shared journey. Whether you are interested in creating meaningful programming, joining us in prayer, contributing your professional expertise to the lay leadership, or participating in social action, there are so many ways to be a part of our congregation. We look forward to a bright future together.
With gratitude for your partnership,
Rabbi Nate Crane
Cantor Pavel Roytman
Jessica Littmann, President
Michael Kahn, Executive Director
Please reach out to Executive Director Michael Kahn with any questions.
Historical Documents
Future of the Building FAQ 2024.02.08
Future of the Building President note 2023.05.05
Future of the Building President note 2023.04.28