MacGregor City Council Votes To Allow Lava Rock In Cemetery Plots With Regulations

During the recent McGregor City Council meeting held on July 14, 2025, significant discussions centered around an ordinance amendment concerning the use of lava rock in local cemeteries. This amendment aims to address community concerns while updating existing regulations that have been in place since 2014.

The council reviewed Ordinance O-12-2025, which proposes to amend Section 15-11(b) of the city’s cemetery code. The primary focus of the amendment is to allow the use of lava rock in designated plots, provided they meet specific containment requirements. This decision follows feedback from residents who expressed dissatisfaction with the current prohibition on lava rock, particularly those with family members interred in plots that already feature this material.

The Community Services Board, represented at the meeting, highlighted that during a recent spring cleanup, the issue of lava rock usage became prominent. Residents voiced their concerns about potential changes that could affect existing plots, leading to a heated discussion about the future of lava rock in the cemetery. The board's consensus was to find a compromise that would allow the continued use of lava rock while ensuring it is safely contained to prevent hazards during maintenance activities.

To facilitate this, the proposed amendment stipulates that any lava rock must be contained within a concrete border, which is already a requirement in the existing ordinance. This measure aims to ensure that the rock does not become a projectile hazard during lawn maintenance, addressing both safety and aesthetic concerns.

The council's decision to move forward with this amendment reflects a commitment to balancing community preferences with practical maintenance considerations. As the ordinance progresses, it is expected to alleviate tensions among residents while enhancing the overall upkeep of the cemetery.

In conclusion, the McGregor City Council's discussions on the lava rock ordinance highlight the importance of community engagement in local governance. The anticipated changes aim to foster a more accommodating environment for families while maintaining safety and order within the cemetery. Further steps will be taken to finalize the ordinance and implement the new guidelines.