Sextons report 12 burials in 2023; committee weighs land needs, equipment and green-burial guidance

Sexton Leah O'Barski and Assistant Sexton Wayne O'Barski reported to the joint cemetery committee Sept. 18, 2024 that the cemeteries handled 12 burials in 2023 — five traditional burials and seven cremains — and sold five lots. Sextons said they have sold several vaults directly to families and are using temporary markers (3x5 cards and laminate pouches donated by Bellin Health) when headstones are not yet placed.

The sextons described the process used for a recent green burial and the committee reviewed materials, including a Town of Doty ordinance allowing burial on private property, for future consideration. Assistant Sexton Wayne O'Barski proposed installing short PVC tubes in gravesites to hold flowers and reduce damage during trimming; the committee tabled formal ordinance changes pending further research.

Committee members discussed long-term needs, including continued monitoring for additional cemetery land and replacements or upgrades of small equipment. Members noted repeated lawn growth has required use of a personal mower with a bagger and that they are considering a bagger attachment for a John Deere 300, a dump trailer, a chainsaw and other hand tools. The committee also discussed a nearby new road with areas of washout and edge deterioration and agreed to request a meeting with the county supervisor, county administrator and highway commission to review repairs.

The committee set its next meeting for April 30, 2025. The meeting minutes were posted Oct. 9, 2024.