In the year 2000, our congregation decided to split into three separate congregations because of growth. There were 186 members. The Kingdom Hall had only 190 seats. Plus, it was probably making it difficult for the Elders to keep track of all the members. Less members, easier to keep an eye on them.
One congregation decided to stay at the same Kingdom Hall, the other two decided to move to new locations.
Our congregation decided buy a small building and remodel. They took out a loan from the Society for $85,000.They enlarged and repaved the parking lot, installed new bathrooms, carpets, seats, lighting and window treatments.
Each family was asked to contribute a fixed amount every month for the loan. This was to be paid in addition to any other expenses.
Around 2005, our congregation decided to have three other congregations use the Kingdom Hall because the expenses were too difficult to meet for each month. We only had 45 members attending.
Two years ago, I was told that because there were four congregations using the same Kingdom Hall, and the meetings hours were getting too hard to manage, my old congregation decided to leave.
They found a Kingdom Hall that needed another congregation to help pay for expenses.
Here is my old congregation, 21 years later having to move twice, paying for the remodel, and paying monthly expenses. Having to start again, they will nothing to show for it. One day the Watchtower Society will decide to sell the Kingdom Hall and use it to pay all their lawsuits.