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Resident distributes Butler Cemetery deeds; trustees note town is addressing stewardship of historic burial sites
Summary
A resident, Donna Godfrey, handed trustees a Historical Society letter and documents about Butler Cemetery deeds; trustees noted the town is handling obligations and that a privately owned former Catholic cemetery on Old County Road is being discussed by community members, including Ian Emmott.
During public comment at the Sept. 25 meeting, Donna Godfrey handed trustees copies of a Historical Society letter and documents she said related to Butler Cemetery deeds and gave a copy to Kara, who said she would review the materials.
Trustee Ron Gamage and others noted that Ian Emmott had raised concerns at a historical society meeting about stone and bone removals at a former Catholic Cemetery on the former Dragon property on Old County Road. Trustees said that cemetery is not town‑owned and that discussions are ongoing between concerned residents and the Catholic Church.
Chairman Ryan Fitzpatrick said he was not on the board when the earlier incident referenced in the Historical Society letter occurred and emphasized the trustees' limited role: "The board played no role in the letter," minutes record, and he said the Town is now taking care of its obligation to the cemetery and will continue to do so. Kara (role not specified in the minutes) accepted a copy of the letter and said she would look into it.
The trustees recorded no formal action at the meeting on ownership or legal steps; Donna Godfrey submitted the documents for the record and the board said the Town will follow up through staff.
