Coppell council directs staff to tighten Rolling Oaks pricing, limit bulk plot sales and add 1,900 spaces

Coppell — City staff told the Coppell City Council on April 8 that Rolling Oaks Memorial Center needs operational changes to remain financially sustainable and recommended a community-focused approach that pairs price increases with a modest land expansion and limits on bulk purchases.

The presentation by staff member Sherry and Tyler Peace, Rolling Oaks cemetery manager, laid out four linked recommendations: adopt a resident/standard rate structure with verification; discontinue the current 20% resident discount and instead offer a verified resident-only rate; limit sales to six spaces per person or household (down from a council-approved 15-per-person policy as written); and develop a small expansion adjacent to the Garden of Legacy that contractors estimate would add about 1,900 single‑depth in‑ground spaces, with some spaces offering double‑depth rights.

Why it matters: Rolling Oaks is funded through a special revenue fund, not the general fund, meaning operations are intended to be supported by cemetery revenue rather than property taxes. Staff said the cemetery’s existing price levels are “well below market,” which contributed to regional demand that has reduced the municipality’s in‑town inventory. Council members repeatedly said they want to preserve the cemetery as a community amenity for Coppell residents while ensuring the fund remains solvent.

Key details from staff and council discussion: - Privatization/management…