Bucksport committee reviews cemetery repairs, seeks cost estimate and budget clarity

Members of the Town of Bucksport Cemetery Committee spent most of the meeting reviewing recent maintenance at Oakill Cemetery and pressing staff for clearer budgeting and coordination with contractors ahead of spring work.

The committee discussed a recent round of repairs at Oakill, where Kevin reported he replaced broken chain links and installed a 124-foot roll of 2-inch chain to secure portions of the site. Members noted fresh tracks and damage to fencing that looked like human interference rather than only wildlife; they said town plowing crews are keeping an eye on the area while weather conditions produce more routine patrols.

Committee members raised the possibility of installing wireless security cameras to deter vandalism and to provide accurate descriptions if damage occurs. The group agreed it would be appropriate to consult Chief Kagan for recommendations on camera placement and feasibility.

Discussion broadened to several site‑specific items. Members asked whether a previously flagged maple tree showing rot had been formally assessed; Kevin agreed to follow up. The committee also noted Riverview Cemetery had recently removed a large maple that had damaged stones and fencelines. Because some stones are currently in the custody of the Riverview Cemetery Association, members recommended sending a certified letter to that association explaining planned work and requesting a written acknowledgement before moving or resetting any stones.

At the 917 site, members debated how to set memorial stones without disturbing suspected graves. Options discussed included importing base material (gravel, loam or sand) and establishing about a 1-foot base for stability rather than extensive digging. The committee emphasized that final placement decisions will be made by the committee to avoid disturbing burial areas.

Budget and contracting were central concerns. Members asked Jacob to determine whether money for the Oakill project has already been set aside and to report back; if not, they requested a cost estimate in advance of budget season. Whitney, the contractor the committee has worked with, said she would provide an estimate for the work and members discussed coordinating town crew labor with Whitney’s contract to reduce costs.

The committee also sought clarity on who authorizes memorial placements. Members said Buck Memorial Cemetery is town‑managed and that some cemeteries are overseen by associations; they asked staff to compile a contact list showing who manages each cemetery and to include any existing maintenance budgets and funding sources. One member noted the historical society had voted to set aside $1,000 for related needs in a prior year but said broader accounting of labor hours and other expenses would aid budget planning.

Jacob reported that paperwork for the Gin memorial had been submitted last month but that no further update was available; the committee asked staff to follow up and to clarify whether council approval is required for the placement.

The meeting closed after routine calendar items and a reminder that committee reassignments will occur next month. Committee members asked staff to return with the Whitney estimate, confirmation of any set‑aside funds, and updates on the Gin memorial paperwork so the group can finalize spring plans.

The committee approved the meeting minutes by voice vote and adjourned by voice vote; specific tallies were not read at the meeting.