City allocates $25K for cemetery monument restoration after vandalism damage

The Ashland City Council convened on July 1, 2025, to address several pressing issues, primarily focusing on the reconstruction of damaged headstones and monuments at the local cemetery. The council discussed an amendment aimed at facilitating the restoration project, which has garnered $25,735 in donations from the community.

The city will act as a conduit for these funds, collaborating closely with the cemetery board to oversee the ordering of work and approval of payments. The council emphasized the importance of ensuring that the restoration meets the board's satisfaction before any invoices are signed off.

During the meeting, council members expressed their dismay over the extent of the damage, which was estimated by the cemetery board's vice president. The discussion highlighted the challenges of restoring hand-carved headstones, as many modern replacements are made of granite and lack the unique craftsmanship of older stones. The council noted that while the cemetery carries liability insurance, insuring individual headstones is not feasible since they are purchased by families and not considered part of the cemetery's fixed structures.

In a positive turn, the Oaks Lodge announced plans to donate $13,000 towards a security system to help protect the cemetery, showcasing community support in the wake of the vandalism. The council encouraged residents to contribute directly to the cemetery association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the cemetery's upkeep.

The city will serve as a central collection point for donations, ensuring detailed accounting and transparency in the use of funds. The council acknowledged the community's quick response to the incident, with numerous individuals and organizations expressing a desire to contribute to the restoration efforts.

As the meeting concluded, council members reiterated their commitment to restoring the cemetery and expressed gratitude for the community's willingness to assist in addressing this unfortunate situation. The council remains optimistic that the restoration will ultimately enhance the cemetery's condition and preserve its significance for future generations.