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Bogalusa committee moves to survey cemeteries after concern over deed records and burials
Summary
The finance committee discussed a proposed survey to map graves and reconcile deed records in the city's cemeteries; staff said the Louisiana state cemetery board has offered grant assistance to support the effort.
The Bogalusa Finance Committee on July 17 discussed a proposed plan to survey the city's cemeteries to map burial locations and reconcile deed records after council members raised concerns about unclear plots and double burials.
"We must get a handle on our loved ones," the chair said, urging a mapping and deed review for Bogalusa cemetery sites. Chair and staff said a mapping has been shared but is under review and that a formal survey would determine who is buried where and whether deeds match plot locations.
Council members discussed historical research and possible nonprofit or mausoleum initiatives to improve cemetery management and fundraising. One council member said she had reviewed old newspapers for historical burials and suggested consulting the district attorney about land use or sale if audit results show available plots.
Staff said the Louisiana state cemetery board has indicated it can assist with grants to support mapping and related work. The committee said the survey and audit results should guide the formation of a cemetery board and next steps.
What happens next: staff will continue to review maps and deeds, explore grant assistance with the state cemetery board, and report back to the committee on a plan and timeline for a formal survey.
