Cemetery commission approves veteran monument and solar-lit flagpoles at Prairie Home Cemetery

The Waukesha City Cemetery Commission voted unanimously June 9 to approve placement of a veteran monument and solar-lit flagpoles at Prairie Home Cemetery, with the Friends group funding the work.

Karen, the cemetery director, told commissioners the proposal—sponsored by the Friends group—would place a monument in a veteran-designated corner of Section 8 and add a 20-foot, solar-lit flagpole in that area and another in the original veteran Section P. "There is a granite base on the bottom here, and it stands about 4 feet tall," Karen said when describing the proposed monument. She also said the Friends "have already voted to fund the monument and the flagpoles and the solar lights and the flags."

Commissioners asked for clarification about exact siting near an existing arbor used for military honors and about installation work. Members and volunteers offered help: one commissioner noted local scout troops have completed projects in the area and said they would be "glad to help" with plantings and flagpole installation. Karen said the Friends will develop a design plan and staff will coordinate placement in Section 8 and in Section P.

Amanda Roddy moved to approve placement of the monument and solar-lit flagpole in the newer veterans section and to place a solar-lit flagpole in the original veteran section, provided the items are funded by the Friends group; Terry seconded the motion. The commission "passed unanimously," the chair announced.

The commission thanked the Friends group for the fundraising and volunteer support. Staff said they would follow up with the Friends and with members who offered assistance on location and installation plans. The motion approved placement only; details on installation timing and final design will be developed by the Friends and cemetery staff.