York County approves $900 mowing contracts for two abandoned cemeteries, requires board sign-off for repairs

The York County Board voted to authorize mowing for two abandoned cemeteries for 2025 and to require the contractors to seek board approval before performing repairs that would exceed the mowing contract.

Commissioners discussed annual mowing for Zion (in Arborville in the northwest corner of the county) and Cashler Union (visible from the interstate). The board heard that the Johnson family previously provided mowing services; the current contractors asked for higher payments: a request to raise one site's mowing to $900 (from $800) and a request at the other site for $700 plus an additional $250 for potential repairs.

A commissioner moved to authorize mowing at $900 per cemetery for the 2025 year and to require any repairs to be authorized by the board with receipts and documentation; another commissioner seconded the motion. The board approved the motion by roll call.

Board members discussed limiting repairs to items that could be documented with receipts (for example, gate hinges or fence bolts) and noted statutory authorization that allows expenditure for abandoned cemetery maintenance up to set limits. The resolution requires contractors to return for express board authorization if repair costs exceed the permitted mowing allocation.

Why this matters: The county uses statutory authority to maintain abandoned burial grounds. Approving payment for regular mowing keeps the sites maintained and visible; the board added guardrails for repairs to ensure transparency and receipts.

Next steps: Contractors will be paid under the approved amounts for 2025; any repair requests beyond that will be brought back to the board for approval.