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Commission to explore city support for Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery after association appeal
Summary
After a presentation by the cemetery association, the Mercedes City Commission voted to direct staff to explore short-term and fiscal-year funding options and legal constraints to help maintain Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery, which the association says operates on roughly $3,000 per month.
Eduino Fasinho, treasurer of the Mercedes Catholic Cemetery Association, told the commission the group has cared for Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery since the early 1990s and now struggles to sustain maintenance because the cemetery is largely full and the sale of burial plots no longer produces steady revenue.
"Our budget is about $3,000 a month," Fasinho said, listing salaries for two part-time workers, equipment needs and routine supplies. He urged the city to consider options so the cemetery will continue to be cared for in perpetuity.
Commissioners and staff told Fasinho they have researched title records dating to the early 20th century and found gaps and inconsistent documentation that complicate any formal transfer of responsibility. City Manager Mr. Pettis said some deed and reporting records are “sketchy and incomplete,” and recommended legal review before any formal city commitment.
Commissioners proposed a range of options including short-term assistance, adding the cemetery to next year’s budget discussions, and pursuing preservation grants. One commissioner suggested the city coordinate with the Friends of the Mercedes Library and local historical resources to seek Texas historical commission cemetery preservation grants because of the site’s age and cultural significance.
To move the discussion forward, Commissioner Martinez made a motion — seconded by Commissioner Armando Garcia — to "explore the possibility of support for the next year's fiscal budget, pending legal review," with staff to compile an itemized list of cemetery expenses and any legal constraints. The motion passed on a voice vote.
The association provided a brief history during the presentation, saying volunteers and local donors have supported cleanup and restoration efforts since 1994 and listing local firms and families who contributed time or funds. Fasinho said the cemetery has more than 2,341 marked graves plus unmarked sites and emphasized the community and veterans interred there.
Next steps: Fasinho will provide detailed expense records and staff will report back with a feasibility summary and legal guidance ahead of the next budget cycle.
