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Allegan council adopts green-burial rules for Oakwood Cemetery
Summary
Council adopted rules to allow natural "green" burials in a southeast section of Oakwood Cemetery, permitting biodegradable containers and natural markers; staff estimated capacity at roughly 850–900 plots and said records will be maintained to locate graves.
The Allegan City Council voted to adopt rules and procedures allowing green (natural) burials in a designated area of Oakwood Cemetery.
Assistant Director of Public Works Jeff Morey (introduced from the audience) described green burial as an eco-friendly practice that avoids embalming fluids and vaults and requires biodegradable containers or shrouds. Staff recommended a southeast corner of Oakwood as the initial area and estimated capacity at roughly 850–900 graves with the possibility of expansion. Council discussed recordkeeping because natural markers may not be durable; staff said graves will be cataloged in city records so locations can be found if needed for exhumation. Council also requested a clarification to require natural fibers for cloth shrouds; staff agreed that amendment could be made to the rules.
Council moved and approved the motion to adopt the green-burial rules by voice vote. Staff said they plan to price green burial at the same point as traditional burials and do not expect additional ongoing staffing costs to manage the new option.
Next steps: staff will finalize rule language with the agreed clarification on allowable shroud materials, finalize mapping and recordkeeping procedures, and prepare implementation guidance.
