Kendall County approves family cemetery after parents seek immediate burial

Kendall County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a request to designate the “Mecayah Amrani” family cemetery on private property on Johns Road, allowing the family to proceed with burial arrangements.

The request came from Desiree Palacio, the property owner, who asked the court to approve the small family cemetery after the couple’s 14‑month‑old daughter died in a nearby daycare accident. Nicholas Mercado, assistant county engineer, told the court the applicant had submitted the documents the county requires — a survey, affidavit of exemption and other materials — and that the engineer’s office recommended approval.

The court voted to approve the cemetery designation on a motion by Commissioner Jennifer McCall, seconded by Commissioner Andrew Wiesen. The motion carried 5–0, and court staff said the judge would sign the court order so the designation could be recorded and the family could proceed.

Why it matters: County rules require survey and affidavits for family cemetery designations; completing the county’s administrative steps allows landowners to use private property for family interment and clears the path to record the order with the county clerk.

Court procedure and next steps: Once the judge signs the order the clerk will record it and the family will receive confirmation from the engineer’s office that they may proceed. County staff noted the engineering office and its coordinator would remain the point of contact if follow‑up questions arise.

Speakers from the record included the applicant Desiree Palacio and county staff who processed the request; the court expressed condolences and expedited the administrative step so the family could move forward.

Ending: The action was brief but emotional; commissioners said they would do what was necessary to help the family complete burial arrangements.