Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Patton Cemetery topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Veterans groups and volunteers mobilize to restore Patton Cemetery after storm damage
Summary
Council members and local veterans’ groups said they will raise funds and provide labor and equipment to clear fallen trees and maintain Patton Cemetery after recent storms; volunteers plan fundraising and a governance discussion to determine a sustainable stewardship model.
During public comment on May 4, residents and council members described storm damage at Patton Cemetery and outlined community-led efforts to restore and maintain the veterans’ burial ground.
Mayor Thomas P. Dermody and local volunteers thanked long-time caretaker Scott Harris for his work and introduced representatives from the American Legion and VFW. Scott Harris said the cemetery "is a beautiful place in our town" but that years of dwindling funding have made care difficult. Members of the American Legion and the VFW told the council they will help raise funds (estimated needs include roughly $10,000 for a new mower) and coordinate volunteers to remove fallen trees and clean grave areas.
Council members said they expect community partners, local businesses and the veterans’ committee to develop a short-term plan for cleanup and a longer-term governance structure — potentially a nonprofit board — to manage ongoing maintenance without the city taking ownership of the cemetery. Council President Frankie and others thanked staff, including the clerk-treasurer’s office, for expediting support and coordinating volunteer efforts.
Council invited Scott Harris and veterans’ representatives forward for a photo and encouraged residents to participate in upcoming meetings to help determine stewardship roles and funding sources.
