Trustees of Trust Funds / Cemetery Trustees / December 10, 2007

Present:  Roxanne MacConnell, Lucille Gorges, Mary Blank, Patty Little, Gerry Plotts

Guests: Tony Davis, Sexton

Cemetery Trustees

Capital Improvement Program:

Mary led a discussion about any potential projects to be included in the proposed CIP.  Potential projects included: replacing the existing chain link fence on the boundaries of the Village Cemetery with wood fencing; initiating a program for monument repair which would be augmented with the McCourt Trust; install a water line from the Jones property for watering at the Village Cemetery; providing for landscaping with trees and shrubbery; and acquisition of abutting property for cemetery expansion.

Fall Clean-up of Village Cemetery:

The Trustees extended their appreciation to Carol Jones for her assistance in the fall clean-up and to Roxanne for the delicious banana bread.   With respect to the removal of the American Flags, it was noted that next year this initiative should be delayed until after Veterans Day.

Survey and Platting of New Cemetery Plots:

Mary noted that she was expecting the preliminary platting from Ed Goodrich the following week.  Strategic pin placements will need to wait until the spring of 2008.  Mary noted that currently the Trustees pay for 27% of the total cemetery maintenance which is based upon the # of graves covered under perpetual care.  This percentage will change with the # of graves is increased through the expansion.

James White - Cemetery Deed:

Mary confirmed that Joe Feuer had verified that James White died in Hanover in 1994 at the age of 56 years.  He had no children or heirs and is buried in Massachusetts.  The understanding is that the siblings had donated the cemetery plot back to the town, but there has never been anything in writing to substantiate this – other than the handwritten note on the cemetery deed.  It was suggested that a family member should be contacted to verify that intent.

Trustees of Trust Fund Member:

Roxanne noted that she had approached Carol Jones about her interest in becoming a Cemetery Trustees, but she chose to decline at the present time.  Carol will continue to volunteer her considerable efforts at the Village Cemetery.

Operating Budget:

Mary encouraged the members to consider items to be included in their next operating budget.  She noted she would inquire from Vermont Hillside Lawn Care of any price increase for their yearly mowing contract.

Cemetery Rules:

Patty inquired whether the cemetery rules should be amended to require the placement of corner monuments for all new cemetery plot purchases.  If adopted, this language should also be included in the cemetery deed.

Minutes:

Roxanne moved to accept the minutes from the November meeting corrected to show that a unanimous vote had occurred for the mowing contract with Vermont Hillside Lawn Care. 

Submitted,
Patricia Little
Secretary