Heber Cemetery enhances services with new admin building and columbarium

In a recent meeting of the Snyderville Basin Cemetery District Board of Trustees, held on May 14, 2025, discussions centered around the operations and future developments of the cemetery, highlighting both the challenges and innovations within the district.

The meeting opened with the administrative assistant, who has been with the cemetery for four years, sharing insights into the current staffing and operational structure. With a dedicated team of two full-time employees and seasonal workers, the cemetery manages a variety of tasks, including burials, cremations, and landscaping. The assistant emphasized the importance of having a knowledgeable staff, especially following the retirement of the previous director, which has led to a temporary gap in leadership.

A significant point of discussion was the cemetery's transition to offering a columbarium, a structure for storing cremation urns. This new addition aims to meet the growing demand for cremation services, which, while still lower than the state and national averages, has seen an increase from 8% to 14% over the past five years. The board expressed optimism that the new facility, set to open in August, would attract more families seeking cremation options, especially as the community becomes more familiar with the offerings.

The board also addressed the cemetery's pricing structure, noting that while the cost of niches may seem higher than traditional burials, they include additional services such as opening and closing fees and basic engraving. This comprehensive pricing strategy aims to provide families with a more economical option in the long run.

Another topic of concern was the cemetery's land use and future planning. Currently, the cemetery spans approximately eight acres with around 14,000 graves, and the board discussed the potential for expanding burial options as demand increases. The assistant noted that the cemetery has the luxury of land availability, allowing for a more flexible approach to future developments compared to other cemeteries facing space constraints.

As the meeting concluded, the board recognized the importance of community engagement and education regarding the cemetery's services. They acknowledged that many residents may not fully understand the options available to them, particularly regarding cremation and the new columbarium. The board expressed a commitment to improving outreach efforts to ensure that families are informed and can make choices that best suit their needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Snyderville Basin Cemetery District's dedication to adapting to changing community needs while maintaining a respectful and well-managed environment for families during their times of loss.