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Family seeks city approval to inspect century‑old Hansen crypt; council asks for licensed contractor proposal
Summary
Relatives of the Hansen family requested permission to inspect a 12–14 foot burial chamber in Spring City Cemetery; council members raised liability concerns and asked the family to return with plans and contractor bids showing insurance and methods before granting access.
Spring City — Members of the Hansen family asked the council Thursday for permission to investigate and document a buried family crypt in the Spring City Cemetery so they can identify and mark graves. The council did not approve excavation or inspection on the spot and instead requested a plan and contractor proposals showing insurance and methods.
Family representatives told the council they want the structure examined primarily to ensure it is safe, to photograph and measure the chamber, and, if possible, to locate two caskets described in family history. The family said the stairway may be filled with dirt and that the burial chamber may be accessed through a door at the bottom of the stair landing.
City staff and council members expressed concern about structural safety and the city’s potential liability. Staff reported contacting the State Historic Preservation Office and county health officials; SHPO staff indicated such work carries liability and advised caution. Councilmembers said any intrusive work should be performed by a licensed, insured contractor and proposed that the family solicit contractor bids and return with a plan that puts liability on the contractor and describes work methods, safety precautions and insurance coverage.
Council did not authorize immediate entry or excavation. Members asked the family to provide contractor proposals and noted public‑works staff should be present for work on city property if the city later approves any activity.
