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Council tables decision on IOOF cemetery plots as staff seeks records and stakeholder input
Summary
Milford council heard staff recommendations about unreserved IOOF cemetery plots, discussed record gaps and verification of veterans’ or IOOF rights, and voted to table action while staff seeks more information.
The Milford City Council on Sept. 16 discussed approximately 18–20 unreserved IOOF (Independent Order of Odd Fellows) cemetery plots and the lack of clear records for membership and reservations. Staff said the city’s records show only a handful of named reservations and that previous local chapter representatives (Nick Swain and Tom McGinn) who managed the plots have died, leaving staff without a local contact to verify rights.
Mikaela reported the city located a 2008 resolution indicating IOOF members, their spouses and veterans and their spouses were eligible for the plots. Staff suggested several administrative options: (1) open a limited reservation window for any surviving IOOF members or veterans to claim plot rights on a first-come, first-served basis; (2) require veterans to provide DD-214 documentation to verify eligibility; or (3) proceed with state reclamation procedures for unused burial plots once statutory notification periods are met. Staff said records at statewide IOOF archives in Salt Lake showed only a historical reference to a Milford chapter and no active roster.
Councilmembers asked staff to contact regional IOOF or VFW contacts for records and suggested outreach to individuals known to have reserved plots. Councilmember Ian noted the Beaver IOOF lodge’s secretary might have information. Given the missing documentation and potential sensitivity of altering burial rights, the council voted to table the item until staff can gather additional evidence and reach out to likely stakeholders.
No final policy change or reassignment of plots occurred; staff was directed to seek records, contact known interested parties and return with a recommendation at a future meeting.
