To the Editor:

I would like to respond to your recent article about Cemetery Commissioners and the lack of upkeep in the town’s cemeteries.

First of we were not included in the recent meeting because it was for Department Heads and we are an appointed Committee.  The question was directed to the DPW and the work they do in the cemeteries, which is mostly mowing.

There is no budget for cemetery maintenance other than a small perpetual care fee and therefore we put an article on town meeting floor for extra funds for cemetery upkeep.  Those funds were approved and are now being used for tree work, shrub removal and headstone repair.  This is ongoing work as there are five cemeteries and a lot to do.

The DPW workers are not to blame here and all work is being reviewed in light of outsourcing trash and freeing up workers for other areas like cemeteries, parks and open spaces.

The Select Board, DPW Head, and Town Administrator, along with interested town committees, are looking at these issues. We all want our town open areas to improve and look the best they can.

Thank you,
Margie Baldwin for the Cemetery Commissioners