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Hancock County commissioners weigh who is responsible for damaged cemetery monuments
Summary
Commissioners discussed that county maintenance covers grounds but not ownership of monuments after placement, and asked for documentation such as plot sale agreements to clarify responsibilities following storm damage or vandalism.
The Hancock County Commission discussed whether the county or families are responsible for cemetery monuments after storms or vandalism during its May 8 meeting.
Commission President introduced the item as a discussion, saying the county is the "caregiver of the land, but the family of the deceased is the property owner of the monuments." The commission noted that the county's Hancock County Cemetery Rules and Regulations and Internment Policy packet does not specify responsibility for monuments once they are placed.
Commissioner Cowie said the county currently cuts grass for cemeteries it manages but that "if we even do anything with those monuments and something would happen to them that crack or get damaged, we'd be [liable] before that." Commissioners asked the public and other officials to provide plot sale agreements or other documents that clarify ownership and maintenance responsibilities.
No formal action was taken; the item was a request for additional documents and guidance to clarify roles going forward. The commission characterized the matter as unresolved and asked staff and others to share any relevant agreements or historical guidance.
The discussion followed the item order on the agenda and occurred during the commission's business session. Commissioners said the issue arose after recent storms had caused trees to fall on some monuments and after reports of vandalism.
The commission moved on to the next agenda item after requesting additional records and public input.
