# cemetery-commission — 17 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-02-05-agenda-6390.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-02-05 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-02-05-agenda-6390.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02052024-6390 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Monday, February 05, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review & Approve Minutes a. November 30, 2023 3. DPW Director Updates 4. Discuss Open Items – Cemetery Commission a. Recent pruning of the Arborvitae hedges at North Cemetery – no communication or plan provided to date. b. Review and discussion of validation letter sent to the Cemetery Commission by Bill Bernard, DPW Director. c. Leaf/raking blowing labor hours – North and South Cemeteries. Break-out of all numbers from DPW vs. outside participants – no communication or plan provided to date. d. Next Steps for the 2024 Season. e. Capital Planning Budget – issues or concerns. f. Ramaker updates and concerns. 5. Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint from John Bowen 6. Future Meeting Schedule a. Third Thursday of each month – March 21, 2024 7. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-02-05-minutes-6390.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-02-05 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-02-05-minutes-6390.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02052024-6390 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, February 05, 2024– 9:00 AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 9:00 AM – Call to Order – The Cemetery Commission Meeting was called to order at 9:06 AM – by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, other members present were David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk; Bill Bernard, DPW Director; Todd Holman, Cemetery Superintendent; Attorney Adam Costa, Lunenburg Town Counsel; and Heather Lemieux, Town Manager. Public attendance were John Bowen, Jeanmarie Price and John Bowen, Jr. Prior to the Public Comment – Attorney Costa made the statement to Mr. John Bowen and other public attendee's. There was some confusion regarding the Open Meeting Law and rules regarding the public recording or videoing. Mr. John Bowen was under the impression that you could send a letter once to the Chair of the Cemetery Commission stating that he could record at all meetings on his own device from this one letter sent. Attorney Costa explained that this is not correct and read the Open Meeting Law – Public Participation Section – which states the following: “Any member of the public may make an audio or video recording of an open session of a public meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record a meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress (such as passing a note for the chair to the board administrator or secretary). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance”. There was a small glitch with the audio at this time, and Public Access was not able to play the first 5 minutes and 14 seconds of audio during Opening the Meeting and Attorney Costa’s explanation on the Open Meeting Law – Public Participation Section. 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ===PAGE 2=== 1. Public Comment – John Bowen presented his public comments below. a. Mr. Bowen presented many allegations throughout his three minutes of public comments. Statements include the Cemetery Commission being redundant to the Town and DPW; Harassment to other individuals for dogs that are running lose in the North Cemetery; dogs that are not on leashes; claims that Mr. Bowen, Jeanmarie Price and others were falsely accused, including “Highland Farms” and a person that is on the “Finance Committee” in past minutes; condemnation of the “DPW Director” and “Cemetery Superintendent” for failure in not doing their jobs; harassment/engaging activity “reserved for the DPW and the Local 39 Union, particularly in conclusion of the collective bargaining agreement for the Town”; “proposed a wall and shrub replacement to the Capital Planning Committee, Select Board, and overseeing the Town Manager”; “engaged in overlapping work that falls under the care and maintenance of the DPW”; “patronage to a former Town Official, who was on your board allowing a four foot bench vs. a three foot bench in the North Cemetery by changing a rule, which has always been the history/authority under the DPW”; “these are the same comments that I made to you on November 30th, before you reached out to the police and demanding that I leave that meeting after I made those exact and same comments”; “you adjourned the cemetery meeting and then reconvened the meeting 30 minutes later, which by the way is a Public Notice and Meeting Law violation – which you have on your agenda today to hear, which is my complaint and I filed”; “this board is unnecessary red tape for this town, as I mentioned to the Select Board meeting last week”; “the DPW and Town Manager carry all Superintendent and Management power, how you can have overlapping duties makes no sense and under the Charter, which can be separable and redundant under the DPW Director and Superintendent”. “Sorry that I spoke too fast, as I have three minutes to speak”. 2. DPW Director Updates – document was presented to the Cemetery Commission in a previous e-mail to the Chair. Bill Bernard, DPW Director presented the hard-copy document at the meeting. It reads as follows: a. Burials continued through week ending 01/05/2024. The cemeteries were closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, January 6, 2024, due to snow accumulation making the roadways unsafe to travel on. Due to the snow, the cemeteries remain closed to vehicles. One body has been stored in the mausoleum for interment in the springtime. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – none made. b. Recent pruning of the Arborvitae hedges at North Cemetery – no communication or plan provided to date. In addition to being impractical, Rule 310-4 B oversteps the authority of the Cemetery Commission as this is considered day-to-day care and maintenance per the Charter Section 3-5(b) and puts an undue burden on the DPW. The DPW cannot provide 30 days’ advance notice for the removal of trees that are deemed hazardous as it is a public safety issue. The DPW will continue to maintain trees and shrubs as needed, and will update the Cemetery Commission at regular scheduled meetings. Specifically, the dead branches were cut out of the last round of trimmed hedges at the North Cemetery. The same work was done to the hedges at the South Cemetery and the other hedges at the North Cemetery, which have subsequently grown back and filled in. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair stated that the Cemetery Commission was not called in to discuss the last pruning of the hedges in North Cemetery. Bill Bernard stated that this is a day-to-day maintenance, and the DPW does not have to communicate to us. The Cemetery Commission disagrees and believes that this is a major physical alteration of the cemetery landscape; and in hindsight, has probably resulted in the demise of these boundary hedges – per the professional Arborist’s. The rules and regulations were reviewed and revised by our Town Manager, Legal Counsel, Select Board Member and was voted and accepted by the Cemetery Commission. Statement was made that we have a couple that would like to give a generous gift of building a stone-wall in memory of the four generations of the Barney Family. This wall would be low maintenance for the DPW going forward. Going forward, Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair requested that the DPW communicates and works together with the Cemetery Commission. c. Leaf/raking blowing labor hours – North and South Cemeteries. Break-out of all numbers from DPW vs. outside participants – no communication or plan provided to date. This is a routine annual operation and maintenance function, which per the Town Charter is under the direction of the DPW. There was no reason to track the hours. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair wanted to understand the use of Cemetery Commission’s general funds and did not accuse mismanagement of funds to the DPW Director directly. Bill Bernard, DPW Director objected, which I apologized for the use of that phase. d. Next Steps for the 2024 Season. Rule 310-4 Landscaping Standards for Perpetual Care Part C: Annual Maintenance Plan: Prior to March 15 of each calendar year, the Cemetery Superintendent will provide a maintenance plan to the Cemetery Commissioners that identifies how the cemeteries and burial grounds will be maintained for the year, consistent with the rules, regulations, and standards of the Cemetery Commissioners. The DPW will provide a general maintenance plan in accordance with the rule. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair, moved on as the Maintenance Plan from the DPW will be given to the Cemetery Commission in March, 2024. e. Capital Planning Budget – issues and concerns. The DPW/Cemetery requests were presented to the Capital Planning Committee on November 8, 2023. Dave Dorren was present. The agenda for the Capital Planning Committee on 12/21/23 stated: Review and vote on final ranking of all FY25 Capital Planning Requests. The minutes are not posted. The projects to be funded will be on a warrant article for the Spring Town Meeting. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair wanted to make sure that the public understood that Bill Bernard, DPW Director and Cemetery Commission had a meeting to include all projects and items that needed to be placed on the Capital Plan for FY25. This was a collaboration effort of the DPW and Cemetery Commission. ===PAGE 3=== f. Ramaker updates and concerns. Ramaker is a Cemetery Information Management System (CIMS). CIMS Light is an easy-to- use database that helps cemetery managers track ownership, interment, and marker information. The database contains information that is available to employees only. This is considered day-to-day care and maintenance per the Charter Section 3- 5(b) and not a function of the Cemetery Commission. Passwords for this software are assigned to staff only. The Cemetery Superintendent updates Ramaker during the winter months. Data from the interred from the past year is added. Any data found missing from previous interments is also added. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair brought to light that the Cemetery Commission has always had the password provided to the Chair. The Cemetery Commission wants to understand what seems to be different with this year with regards in not allowing the Cemetery Commissioners not to have the password given? The Cemetery Commission since the software was purchased, has paid for this software, maintenance and upgrades. In fact, in the past there was information provided that the past documents from the Cemetery burial’s were supposed to be included into this database. This was the main reason that the Cemetery Commission had purchased this software from the beginning. If we lose those hard copy documents that are stored in boxes at the DPW, we lose our history in this town. They will be lost forever. Bill Bernard, DPW Director was unaware of this knowledge and the role that the Cemetery Commission played in this matter. This will be tabled until the next meeting. Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair requested that we have a meeting with the Town Manager regarding this matter, and table this discussion until the next meeting. g. Town Report FY23 – The Cemetery Commission and DPW Director, William Bernard met throughout the year to discuss cemetery business. Projects that were unfolded and being reviewed this year, include the surveying of the open field at North Cemetery; projects with the existing historical walls that surround North Cemetery; historical and Veterans grave-sites that need care and repositioning. Review of diagrams of healthy trees that will be kept in place around the grave-sites for future burials. The Cemetery Commission looks forward in the upcoming months to begin the project with the DPW and Engineering Firm to expand for burials, well into the future at the North Cemetery. (Names of businesses and individuals were also added to this document.) 3. Discuss Open Items – Cemetery Commission a. Recent pruning of the Arborvitae hedges at the North Cemetery. Table this discussion at the next Cemetery Commission Meeting. b. Review and discussion of validation letter sent to the Cemetery Commission by Bill Bernard, DPW Director. Under the Cemetery Rules and Regulations – there are no perception of favoritism and possible discrimination by the Cemetery Commission. As stated in the regulations – it is at the sole discretion of the Commission the acceptance of donations/gifts will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Comments made by the Cemetery Commission – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair read from a letter that Bill Bernard, DPW Director, which had e-mailed her as Cemetery Commission, Chair on November 29, 2023. In that letter the Bill Bernard, DPW Director made the statement that “since this rule was first proposed (section 310-13 Gifts and Donations), I voiced my objection because of the perception of favoritism and possible discrimination.” Points made by Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair – there are both 3 foot benches and 4 foot benches in the North Cemetery today. People will be reasonable if they are only able to have a 3 foot bench because of the size of the lot vs. a 4 foot bench on a lot that may be able to accommodate a longer bench. This is why the sole discretion is up to the Cemetery Commission to be evaluated on a case-by- case basis. Dave Dorren, Vice Chair stated “that he believes that we need to go by the rules and regulations and work it out together.” c. Leaf/raking blowing hours – North and South Cemeteries. Break-out of numbers from DPW vs. outside participants. The DPW Director stated that there are no hours recorded. d. Next Steps for the 2024 Season. The DPW Director stated that the Cemetery Commission will have an Annual Maintenance Plan prior to March 15 of each calendar year. e. Capital Planning Budget – issues and concerns. Table this discussion at the next Cemetery Commission Meeting. f. Ramaker updates and concerns. Table this discussion at the next Cemetery Commission Meeting. 4. Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint from John Bowen – Attorney Costa spoke on behalf of the Cemetery Commission and Michael-Ray Jeffreys, Chair Select Board. This discussion was turned over to the Legal Counsel, Attorney Costa – presented copies of the letter’s that Attorney Costa had written to both the complainant and Division of Open Government - Office of the Attorney General to Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair and Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair. Explanation of the Open Meeting Law and how this process works. A new process was created and begin in early 2010’s for those that believed that an Open Meeting Law may have been violated. The complaint is submitted by the complainant to the public body, in which a period of time in which the public body can review the substance of the complaint, and can then prepare a response. That response gets sent to the complainant, and then filed with the new Division of Open Government, within the Office of the Attorney General; which reviews these sort of complaints. In the event that the complainant is satisfied with the response from the public body, it will then end there – end of process. If the complainant is then dissatisfied with the response, then the complainant can make a filing of their own with the Division of the Open Government, will then conduct their own investigation of the complaint; which consists of phone call/conversations with the complainant and members of the commission that are alleged to the Open Meeting Law violation. This usually falls within the 45 to 60 days, the Division of the Open Government will make a determination if the Open Meet Law has been violated, and will order any remedies that might be appropriate. Again, this is the process. In this case an Open Meeting Law Complaint was submitted – originally filed on January 17, 2024. Filed the Open Meeting Law Complaint Form – 2 pages. Description of the alleged violation complaint completed by Mr. Bowen, and a request for certain actions to be undertaken by the public body. Attorney Costa did his own investigation after conducting many investigations for other ===PAGE 4=== communities that he represents; and for probably about a dozen times over the years for the Town of Lunenburg. The investigation was conducted of the facts, and prepared a proposed response. This was sent in advance, but because of the open meeting law, we could not discuss in advance to having this Cemetery Commission Meeting. This is a straight forward response a couple of paragraphs with many footnotes that take up the better half of the first page. The essence of the response of the Open Meeting Law is untimely. The way that the Open Meeting Law is structured, a complainant that believes that the Open Meeting Law has been violated – has 30 days from the date of the alleged violation to make a request to the Cemetery Commission and Division of Open Government; claiming that the violation of Open Meeting Law has occurred. The 30 days run from the date of the alleged violation. There are a provisions in the law, as I saw some correspondence from Mr. Bowen that he did not realize, or was not aware that there was alleged violation, and that had occurred then sometime long after the date of November 30, 2023. There are some provisions in the Open Meeting Law, within the regulations that say if/or the 30 days have been responsibly known or discovered – then the date would change to the time that this was 30 days when discovered. For example, if an Executive Session took place, then the only time you would know if the violation occurred was when the meeting minutes were released to the public. The date would start from the date of the minutes being released to the public. This was not the case, as Mr. Bowen had attended the meeting and was present on November 30, 2023 – Open Public Meeting. Mr. Bowen contend that a violation occurred at a meeting that he attended on November 30, 2023; yet the complaint is dated and was received on January 17, 2024, 48 days later and 18 days beyond the aforementioned deadline. You will see the response that because of Mr. Bowen's untimely complaint, that occurred more than 30 days prior thereto, Attorney Costa on behalf of the Cemetery Commission has declined to substantively respond to it. Several key points were discussed regarding footnotes that Attorney Costa had presented in his letter to Mr. Bowen. One in particular is the civil rights action against the Commission, the Town or any Town official(s), nor may the Open Meeting Law enforcement process be utilized by a complainant to advance claims(s) of civil rights violation(s). Motion was made to accept these letters to go forward by Attorney Costa, and send copies of these signed letters to the Cemetery Commissioner’s and Mr. Bowen. Review & Approved Motions a. Open Meeting Law Complaint Letter – John Bowen – Motion Passed 2 to 0. b. Open Meeting Law Complaint Letter – Office of the Attorney General – Motion Passed 2 to 0. 5. Review & Approve Minutes and Annual Report FY23 Document a. 11/30 Meeting Minutes – Motion Passed 2 to 0. b. Cemetery Commission document for the Annual Report 2023 – Motion Passed 2 to 0. 6. Future Meeting Schedule a. Third Thursday of each month – March 21, 2024 Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, seconded by Vice-Chair and Clerk, David Dorren. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 10:10 AM – Motion Passed 2 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Clerk Electronic Signatures ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-02-22-agenda-6428.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-02-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-02-22-agenda-6428.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02222024-6428 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, February 22, 2024 – 12:00 Noon Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room Revised AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omm=85333732401 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 12:00 Noon – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint from Jeanmarie Price 3. Review & Approve Minutes a. February 05, 2024 4. DPW Director Updates 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ===PAGE 2=== 5. Discuss Open Items – Cemetery Commission a. Warrant Article Amount for Cemetery Commission - $10,000. b. Next Steps for the 2024 Season. c. Capital Planning Budget. d. Ramaker – going forward. 6. Historical Commission – Richard McGrath a. Discuss steps in preserving, protecting and development of the walls within Lunenburg Cemeteries. b. Discuss on how to move forward with accepting this generous gift/donation of $175,000.00 to the Cemetery Commission for building a Memorial New England Rustic Field-Stone Wall for North Cemetery. This special gift will be in honor of the Fourth Generation of Barney Family Members, who have served the Town of Lunenburg. 7. Future Meeting Schedule a. Third Thursday of each month – March 21, 2024 8. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-02-22-minutes-6428.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-02-22 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-02-22-minutes-6428.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02222024-6428 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Thursday, February 22, 2024– 12:00 Noon Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 12:06 PM – Call to Order – by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, other members present were David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk; Bill Bernard, DPW Director; Todd Holman, Cemetery Superintendent; Attorney Adam Costa, Lunenburg Town Counsel (ZOOM Conference). Public attendance were John Bowen, Jeanmarie Price, John Bowen, Jr., and Dave Passios. Prior to the Public Comment – Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair, read the statements/paragraphs above, as there is still some confusion regarding the Open Meeting Law and rules regarding the public recording or videoing within the public meeting. Mr. John Bowen was under the impression that you could send a letter prior to the meeting to the Chair, that he was going to record and video from his own devices. Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair – explained that this is not correct to Mr. Bowen and tried to explain the process on the Open Meeting Law – Public Participation Section – which states the following: “Any member of the public may make an audio or video recording of an open session of a public meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record a meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress (such as passing a note for the chair to the board administrator or secretary). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance”. Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair announced that the Cemetery Commission Meeting was being recorded/videoed by Mr. Bowen. Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair made sure that Attorney Costa was present on Zoom and requested that Attorney Costa gives the Open Meeting Law – Public Participation Section (short version, as this was presented and discussed at our last Cemetery Commission Meeting on February 05, 2024). Reviewing the e-mail that was sent to the Cemetery Commission Chair, there seemed to be a few errors with respect to the date of the meeting that was going to be recorded. You are correct prior meeting, that an e-mail is not a substitute. Using the correspondence sent to the Cemetery Commission Chair, is not a substitute prior to the meeting. Mr. Bowen, 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ===PAGE 2=== under the Open Meeting Law, you have the right to record/video, as long as you are not interrupting the meeting; and you must announce at each meeting that you attend that you are recording/video. Since Mr. Bowen has announced this, then this is sufficient for this meeting. Mr. Bowen asked to respond, no response needed per Attorney Costa. Attorney Costa is satisfied that Mr. Bowen has met the requirements of the Open Meeting Law. 1. Public Comment – John Bowen presented his public comments below. a. Mr. Bowen presented many allegations throughout his three minutes plus of public comments. Statement was made by Mr. Bowen – “the Cemetery Commission construction plan for a wall is a flawed and clearly erroneous plan. The receipts of these donations on this agenda today, prior to Town approval of a bid by the DPW is greatly being premature; as the bid process will fall under the purview of the DPW; who handles these types of projects. The construction of the wall presentation is flawed, due to the of the lack of the qualified construction planner. The proposals approved by the Commission is not a pre-production plan, nor an accurate representation of costs calculations. The Arborist from Flag Trees is not a true Arborist, which was mentioned in your last meeting. He is a tree cutter and a landscaper. He is not licensed as an Arborist. This is many issues plaguing the process of the commission over-stepping its authority that have been reserved by the DPW; who has the all the technical and knowledgeable skills to make these determinations. Other issues flawed is the possible issue of using minors when working on projects within this community pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149. The proper planning and placing of the project – putting it out for a bid, pursuant to the same chapter. The studies as well, will reflect a valuation of abutting properties with any changes to Town property or any Public Works Project. Studies of noise to comply with the Town bylaws and state codes upon removal of a sound barrier type structures. These trees are barriers going both ways. From residents property going to the Cemetery and from the Cemetery to the residents property. How these changes will impact okay with the quiet enjoyments of the rights of the abutter’s of the family – needs to be addressed. Your Commission used money from the perpetual care funds for engraving a bench and provide a foundation for the bench; which is in violation of conflict of interest laws for a donor on behalf of passing of late cemetery commissioner – my condolences to the family, which also needs to be addressed. This is in there minutes at the Cemetery Commission believe me that this is patronage the request for Capital Planning money to wash cemetery graves and fallen stones. This falls under the responsibility to fall under the families interred, unless the families are unreachable. Does this fall under the Towns function, as these are old stones and families are unreachable? The following items that have been unbecoming of this Commission is clear- liable remarks in the minutes and false accusations, calling the police contentiously on dogs that are loose, placing an advertisement in the newspaper misleading voters, in conjunction with Michael R., reflects of the Select-Board as well as rewriting of the rules together with the same. I am just scratching the surface. The Cemetery holds no power or duties because the cemetery commission does not fall under a Corporation. That’s General Laws Chapter 114. This is why we see these issues. There is no experience on this board with the cemeteries but you put yourself before the people as you are under control of operations, which clearly you are not. You have no power, and you need permission from the Town Manager and DPW for day-to-day maintenance operations and in conjunction with the Cemetery Superintendent. This rabble-rousing controversially elected position that consistently defaults their debate about why we cannot get along. That is not how the government works. Healthy debates can concession transparency and compromise is exactly how this works. Stop playing victim Cemetery Commissioners – because I am speaking for the people, my number is greater then 175 to petition this…. Mr. Bowen went over the allotted time of three minutes and was thanked for his public comments by Cemetery Commission, Chair – Nancy Foss-Yasko. b. Public Comment – Dave Passios presented his public comments below. c. Mr. Passios for full transparency, I am presently seated as a member of the Finance Committee here in the Town of Lunenburg, and I am hear speaking as a lifetime resident of the Town of Lunenburg and am a person that is involved in Municipal Town Government, for more than a decade in the Town. I would like to read directly from the Charter the powers and duties of the Cemetery Commission. “The Board of Cemetery Commissioners shall have the sole responsibility to make regulations governing the care, superintendence and management of all public burial grounds in Lunenburg and to lay out existing public burial grounds and may lot out in lots or other suitable subdivision with property paths, lanes and ways appropriate for burial use any other land acquired by the town for burial purposes.” The “day-to-day care and maintenance of the cemeteries,” shall be under the supervision of the Town Manager. I added a note here, this is my own note, “Town Manager has tasked the DPW Director to assume the supervisory, supervision over the cemeteries.” The wording of the Charter has been questioned since the day that the Charter was created. Especially with the edits that were made previous. Including and previous to August 20, 2020. I sat in on many of those meetings as they were reviewing the Charter, and the definition between the day-to-day care, and other maintenance and care items in both cemeteries. The Cemeteries and Parks Commission of properties was struggled with and never fully dealt with. So there is still a struggle back and fourth between these commissions, and whoever is tasked with day-to- day care. There is no fine or clear line between the two definitions. This is part of the problem. The other thing is that in my interpretation, this does give the power to the Cemetery Commission, to make regulations for the care, which is if they want to make a regulations that the grass cannot be no more than an ½ inch long, then that is my interpenetration; which means that they are allowed to do that. This needs to be followed with that regulation. Superintendence and management, that is where the battle is. This is not a new thing between what is day-to-day and what is long-term planning. Mr. Passios went over the allotted time of three minutes and was thanked for his public comments by Cemetery Commission, Chair – Nancy Foss-Yasko. ===PAGE 3=== d. Public Comment – Jeanmarie Price – yielded her public comment of three minutes to Mr. Bowen. The Cemetery Commission spoke briefly to Attorney Costa on giving this public comment to another person that has already spoken. Attorney Costa stated that this is not a violation of the law, this is under your discretion. Some boards will allow and some will not. Mr. Bowen wanted to thank the commission for allowing them to yield Jeanmarie’s 3 minutes for public comment. Mr. Bowen wanted to make a comment that “there were policy procedure changes with regards to this commission that were written by Selectman Jeffrey’s, with you Miss Yasko, I have the e-mails. That is a duty reserved for your commission of which the Select Board engaged. According to the Massachusetts General Laws it says that the Select Board to be an overseer of these policies and changes. And for them to influence these policy and changes. As Mr. Passios has referred that okay, okay, it is a conflict of interest, and ethics violation to engage him. I also have multiple e-mails from you to Michael Jeffrey’s. This would be out of the preview would be outside of the rules and regulations, which Mr. Passios is recognizing. The State Law that Mr. Passios is recognizes comes under Chapter 114 – Massachusetts General Law, which states that an elected official to Cemetery Commission has these powers and duties. The problem with these powers and duties, you have clarified in a definition that you submitted to the Town of what superintendence in maintenance and operations. I guess Mr. Passios hasn’t read that yet. Because if he read that, he would see clearly that the only thing that you have power over is lots that its. That’s its. Day-to-day maintenance is left for the DPW and Town Manager. I thank the Commission.” e. The meeting was then turned over to Attorney Costa, which was on a Zoom Conference link. Response listed below. f. Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint from Jeanmarie Price – Attorney Costa spoke on behalf of the Cemetery Commission. This discussion was turned over to the Legal Counsel, Attorney Costa – presented copies of the letter’s that Attorney Costa had written to both the complainant and Division of Open Government – Office of the Attorney General to Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair and Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair. Explanation of the Open Meeting Law and how this process works was stated in our last Cemetery Commission Meeting. The complaint is submitted by the complainant to the public body, in which a period of time in which the public body can review the substance of the complaint, and can then prepare a response. That response gets sent to the complainant, and then filed with the new Division of Open Government, within the Office of the Attorney General; which reviews these sort of complaints. In the event that the complainant is satisfied with the response from the public body, it will then end there – end of process. If the complainant is then dissatisfied with the response, then the complainant can make a filing of their own with the Division of the Open Government, will then conduct their own investigation of the complaint; which consists of phone call/conversations with the complainant and members of the commission that are alleged to the Open Meeting Law violation. This usually falls within the 45 to 60 days, the Division of the Open Government will make a determination if the Open Meet Law has been violated, and will order any remedies that might be appropriate. Again, this is the process. In this case an Open Meeting Law Complaint was submitted – originally filed on February 05, 2024. Filed the Open Meeting Law Complaint Form – 2 pages. Description of the alleged violation complaint completed by Miss Jeanmarie Price; which is Mr. Bowen’s significant other – that’s my understanding anyway. Attorney Costa announced that this complaint is similar to the filed by Mr. Bowen during the same meeting of November 30, 2023. This complaint is somewhat different, than Mr. Bowen’s complaint . It specifically she speaks to the issue of adjourning or recess the meeting that occurred which point and time, Mr. Bowen and Miss Price left the meeting. The meeting was then reconvened a short while later – 20 to 25 minutes later; and the business was then completed. The concern and nature of the complaint raised by Ms. Price is that she perceives the that to be a violation of the Open Meeting Law. I reviewed the complaint and as I have said, included with the materials that accompanied it. I prepared and circulated a few days ago, prior to today’s meeting; a proposed response to the complaint. In some respects, this is similar to the last complaint response that I provided you for Mr. Bowen’s complaint, but an another respect it is similar refers to the time-frame that is stated with the Open Meeting Law. That the complaints files pursuit to this procedure needs to be filed within 30 days of the meeting that is complained of. Obviously, this complaint was received on February 05, 2024; which was received for more than 30 days. I think, it was a total of 67 days, after the November 30, 2023 meeting. Which is 37 days too late, for the response to the complaint. Footnotes will reveal on the first page, that both Mr. Bowen and Miss Price attended the meeting, but Mr. Bowen in my summarizing and my understanding was acting in a disruptive or threatening manner. The Commissioners felt unsafe. This was based on my research and discussions, this is when Mr. Bowen was asked to leave the meeting. The police were called in requested by the Chair, which Mr. Bowen then left the meeting. Apparently prior to the arrival of the police. This addressed on what occurred at the meeting. The draft is before you, will will follow the same next steps in questions that you may have, and then voting on authorization to submit the response that is before you. Copies sent to Miss Price with other copies sent to Office of the Attorney General. Motion was made to accept these letters to go forward by Attorney Costa, and send copies of these signed letters to the Cemetery Commissioner’s and Jeanmarie Price. Review & Approved Motions g. Open Meeting Law Complaint Letter – Jeanmarie Price – Motion Passed 2 to 0. h. Open Meeting Law Complaint Letter – Office of the Attorney General – Motion Passed 2 to 0. 2. Review & Approve Minutes and Annual Report FY23 Document a. February 05, 2024 – Meeting Minutes – Motion Passed 2 to 0. b. Cemetery Commission Warrant Article for FY25 Annual Town Meeting Article ($10K) – Motion Passed 2 to 0. ===PAGE 4=== 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions – The cemeteries in Lunenburg will remain closed to vehicular traffic because of the weather, as it looks like more snow coming in tonight. Even though it might look clear today, I think it is prudent to keep them closed for now. That’s all I have for an update. 4. Cemetery Commission Updates and Discussions – Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, spoke to when Ramaker was purchased by the Cemetery Commission. The desktop software was purchased on May 20, 2010. This desktop version was signed off by Cemetery Commissioner, Charles Deming. The last update was purchased as an upgrade – cloud based product. This was signed on April 12, 2019; which Cemetery Commissioner, Bill Tyler had signed off on. It made us more protected, and kept us up-to- date with Cemetery Software. The previous Cemetery Commissioner Chairperson’s have always had the password. Access to this data is not part of the Cemetery Commissions day to day duties, however, ad hoc access on an as needed basis are required from time to time. Question: I would like to know, as of today, are we up to date with all available and required data having been entered in Ramaker? Answer: DPW Director, is not sure? Action Request: I would like a report for the next meeting detailing the up to-date status of data entry in Ramaker going back as far as 2010. This would include everything that is out there, old records in boxes stored underneath the DPW Cemetery Superintendent’s desk, and historical information that has been entered into that database. If this cannot be provided or is incomplete, the Cemetery Commission would like to know why? Is there a plan going forward for getting all this data entered into this software. Understanding that this takes time, but since 2010, and by now, you should have a good handle on this. I would like to know the status of where we are to-date, as well as the way ahead. Answer: DPW Director, will provide this report/response for our next meeting. 5. Question: Cemetery Commission Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, is questioning why was the Cemetery Commission not notified and informed that a refund was given on a grave and burial plot fee? It looks like the 7th and 21st November, 2023. I want to keep the name confidential, but it looks like there were two incidents that a refund was issued without notification or Cemetery Commission knowledge? Can you tell me why that the Cemetery Commission was not informed or notified of this? Answer: DPW Director, I think I know the reason, but I do not understand why you need to be informed? This is a day-to-day operations. We do plots everyday, and we do not inform you that. Response: Again, you use the words day-to-day operations when it is convenient for you Bill. Primarily I am telling you that the Cemetery Commission has always voted on and concurred on the circumstances for a requested burial plot to be refunded, and that has always been the way that it has been done, with all of the Cemetery Commissioner’s prior to my being Chair. We are here again today, with little to no respect for my being Chair. Every Commissioner before me has received this information. Why am I the only one that cannot get this information from your organization? Can you please explain that to me? Answer: DPW Director, I am not aware of any other refunds. I can tell you I know about this specific one, but prior to that, not aware of any. Response: Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair, “under the previous Cemetery Commission Chair, we had a vote and it is reflected in the minutes that we reviewed and voted to refund the money. This transaction was on record as paying money out of our budget funds to give to the parties. My concern in hearing about this today, that it seems to come out of the Cemetery Commission budget. In essence, the DPW is controlling the cemetery budget without having accountability, knowledge of, or an audit trail of this transaction. Personally, your not even part of the Commission, I do not think this is fair. If we did give money back with these two people, I would like to fully understand where it came from?” Response: Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair, wanted to make clear, that the Cemetery Commission, has authority for the Perpetual Care Account Funds. We are not allowed to spend the principle, only the interest generated. No one else, except the Cemetery Commission is authorized to use these funds, including the Town and DPW. Question: Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair would like to know from the DPW Director, why the money was returned in our next meeting? Answer: DPW Director, believes that they moved out of Town, so therefore, were not going to be buried here. Response: You are stating that the Cemetery Commission was not involved because this is your day-to-day business. DPW Director, stated correct, The Cemetery Commission was not told because he believes this falls under the day-to-day business. Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair stated “this needs to change, as here again is yet another example of no communication with the Cemetery Commission.” Question: Another point is the discussion around the Capital Planning Budget. When the Cemetery Commission asked how many lots were available in the North Cemetery, we were given a number of around 40ish in the spring/summer time of 2023. Now we hear that there are100 lots that available. The DPW and Cemetery Commission had discussed opening up the back field, as there was going to be a need very soon for other lots at the North Cemetery. A decision was made, based on your 40ish data, that the Cemetery Commission needed to put this into place. When we were given that 40ish number, and after the decision was made to proceed, you then told me that this was only an estimate. This was not a true number, as the Cemetery Superintendent was too busy. When the Cemetery Commission makes a decision on something, the Commission needs the data to be accurate and correct. If the data is not accurate and correct, then we cannot make a sound business decision to go forward with opening or not opening the back field at this time, and spend taxpayers money or not at this time. In theory, if the Cemetery Commission ===PAGE 5=== can not open that back field up this year, and push this back a year, then the Town will not have the expense going forward at this time. Saving that $50,000.00 for this year, may certainly help the Town in their budget going forward. This will be a better business decision for the Town. But if the Cemetery Commission does not have the correct data, then you cannot expect to make a sound decision. Response: DPW Director, “explains that sometimes you need to go back to the well a few times to get the money that is needed from the Capital Plan committee.” Response: Chair stated “that going forward, we all need to be careful on true data, not estimates.” This is how to make a better plan with true data. Statement: DPW Director, made a statement that he believes that the DPW has been paying for Ramaker by his records a few years, and going forward he is going to be paying for it. Response: Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, replied that this was not correct, as she had reached out to Ramaker today, and the Cemetery Commission has paid for this software continuously since it was initially purchased in 2010. The Cemetery Commission will make the decision and I will talk with Heather regarding this, and going forward with this. Again, the DPW is making a unilateral decision without consulting the Commission. We have paid it from the beginning, and we will see this through. I will bring this up to where it needs to be brought up to. No way ahead on this Ramaker; therefore, it will be tabled to the next meeting. Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair wants to go forward with a meeting with the Town Manager, or whoever else needs to be part of this meeting regarding Ramaker. 6. Mr. Richard McGrath – unable to be at this meeting today. This will be rescheduled for the next meeting. Cemetery Commission is grateful for the possibility of a generous gift of $175K. This is simply in the researching stages at this time. We have endorsements of many other people in this Town that would like to see a wall put in place, and we are still in the stages of learning and researching for this project. The hedges are not presentable, as a result of the severely pruning. We need to continue researching the best solution for this situation. The DPW Director, is in agreement to the hedges being cut down; however, the Cemetery Commission needs the end to end plan for this solution before proceeding further. If there is enough money to put out a bid contract, then it is definitely could take all the hedges and chip them up by the DPW. All the hedges would be taken down. 7. Future Meeting Schedule a. Thursday, March 07, 2024. Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, seconded by Vice-Chair and Clerk, David Dorren. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 12:56 PM – Motion Passed 2 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Clerk Electronic Signatures ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-03-14-agenda-6463.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-03-14 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-03-14-agenda-6463.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03142024-6463 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, March 14, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omm=87022072771 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review & Approve Minutes a. February 22, 2024 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions 4. Discuss Open Items – Cemetery Commission Updates and Discussions a. Next Steps for the 2024 Season. Prior to March 15, 2024 – DPW Maintenance Plan. b. DPW Update for March 7, 2024 Meeting. c. Ramaker – Ongoing issues. d. Cemetery Refund – On going issues. 5. Discuss Potential Cemetery Commission Candidate 6. Historical Commission – Richard McGrath – Future Discussion Scheduled for April’s Meeting. a. Discuss steps in preserving, protecting and development of the walls within Lunenburg Cemeteries. 7. Future Meeting Schedule a. Third Thursday of each month – April 18, 2024 8. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-03-14-minutes-6463.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-03-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-03-14-minutes-6463.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03142024-6463 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Thursday, March 14, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 9:05 AM – Call to Order – by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, other members present were David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk. Bill Bernard, DPW Director; Todd Holman, Cemetery Superintendent were not present. Public attendance were John Bowen, Jeanmarie Price, John Bowen, Jr., Dave Rogers, Dave Passios and Michael Clark. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko asked that everyone stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. John Bowen and Dave Passios announced to the Commission that they were videoing today’s meeting. The Chair announced that we need to go out of order today, as Michael Clark, potential Cemetery Commission Candidate; needs to leave early for another business meeting. Micheal is looking to be voted on today by the Cemetery Commission to be the third participant. Questions were asked from the Cemetery Commission regarding Michael’s involvement in other committee’s and experience throughout his work and volunteering history. Michael presented himself with knowledge, experience and an understanding of Town Policies and Producers. Several key areas of experiences include: Lunenburg School Committee; School Health Advisory; Boy Scout Adult Leader (12 years); Lead for the Boy Scout Projects within Lunenburg Cemeteries and other Town Projects; and 40 years experience as an Engineer in the Business Sector. Both the Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko and Vice-Chair, David Dorren made a motion to vote to have Michael Clark as the newest Cemetery Commissioner. Motion passed 2 to 0. Meeting Minutes: February 22, 2024 – Motion passed 2 to 0. Public Comment – Mr. Bowen presented many allegations throughout his three minutes of public comments. Public Comment – Mr. Dave Rogers would like to request and schedule a time that he may come and discuss matters regarding the Cemetery Commission and DPW Director. Possible time-frame in the April Cemetery Commission Meeting. Chair would like to have what exactly Mr. Rogers would like to discuss for the topic on the future agenda. 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ===PAGE 2=== DPW Director Updates and Discussions – The DPW Director, Bill Bernard, is unable to attend, and asked that the Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko to read through his letter submitted to the Cemetery Commission. Vehicles are now open for both cemeteries to enter. Part-time seasonal workers have been advertised – three participants have come forward for interviews. DPW Maintenance Plan will be provided by March 15th plan that identifies how the cemetery will be provided and cared for in 2024. Ramaker (CIMS) database for employee password only. Cemetery Superintendent only updates Ramaker in the winter months and has updated this database from the past year. From hired date of June 22, 2015 to current date, The DPW Director, Bill Bernard cannot confirm from January 1, 2010 to June 21, 2015 if the data is up to date or not. Cemetery Commission Updates and Discussions – Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, spoke to when Ramaker was purchased by the Cemetery Commission. The desktop software was purchased on May 20, 2010. This desktop version was signed off by Cemetery Commissioner, Charles Deming. The last update was purchased as an upgrade – cloud based product. This was signed on April 12, 2019; which Cemetery Commissioner, Bill Tyler had signed off on. It made us more protected, and kept us up-to-date with Cemetery Software. The previous Cemetery Commissioner Chairperson’s have always had the password. Access to this data is not part of the Cemetery Commissions day to day duties, however, ad hoc access on an as needed basis are required from time to time. This will be tabled and brought to a higher level (Heather) regarding this matter. The Vice-Chair Dave Dorren is very concerned about this matter, and agrees on getting the Town Manager involved and or Select Board to help move forward in this process. The Cemetery Commission has always had that password up until now. Why when this Chair is in place, is this not allowed? Mr. Bowen spoke out of session. Dave Passio stated that this was a Point of Order regarding the outburst. The Cemetery Commission is presently in its deliberations based on the agenda. Under those conditions, there is no back and forth between the visitors in the public and Cemetery Commission. I take exception on this interruption of this meeting – thank you. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko wants the Public to know that the DPW Director, Bill Bernard had sent the letter to read during our Cemetery Commission Meeting. It is his choice that he could not make the meeting, because of his schedule. We are going to deliberate what we need to deliberate. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko was presented with information regarding money given back to resident parties that had previously purchased lots in the past. No communication or discussions regarding this matter was ever given to the Cemetery Commission. The Cemetery Commission has always had the procedure in place to vote and approve any money that is given back from the Sales of Lots. The DPW did not follow the correct protocol, and therefore, submitted these vouchers to the Town without the proper signatures from the Cemetery Commissioners. This was an oversight by the DPW, Director, and I will inform the Cemetery Commission going forward. Dave Dorren, Vice-Chair stated that “our past minutes from our past Chair, voted and accepted any sale of lots that need to be refunded because of moving out of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts etc. Why now with this DPW Director, and Chair has this changed”? 1. Future Meeting Schedule a. Thursday, April 07, 2024. Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, seconded by Vice-Chair and Clerk, David Dorren. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 9:35 AM – Motion Passed 2 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Clerk Electronic Signatures ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-03-19-agenda-6470.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-03-19 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-03-19-agenda-6470.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03192024-6470 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION AGENDA Cemetery Commission Meeting Tuesday, March 19, 2024 – 7:15 PM Lunenburg Town Hall – Select Board Meeting 17 Main Street, Lunenburg, MA 01462 In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 909- 174-0347 # If you have not registered with Zoom, you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 7:15 PM – Open Meeting – Joint Meeting with the Select Board – Joint Appointment of Cemetery Commission by the Cemetery Commission and Select Board to the vacancy with the term expire at the next annual election: Mike Clark – 275 Cross Road, Lunenburg, MA 01462. Discussions on items not listed to the extent permitted by the Open Meeting Law. Adjournment. 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-03-19-minutes-6470.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-03-19 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-03-19-minutes-6470.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03192024-6470 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 19, 2024 – 7:15 PM Lunenburg Town Hall – Select Board Meeting 17 Main Street, Lunenburg, MA 01462 In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 909-174-0347 # If you have not registered with Zoom, you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 7:25 PM – Open Meeting – Joint Meeting with the Select Board – Joint Appointment of Cemetery Commission by the Cemetery Commission and Select Board to the vacancy with the term expire at the next annual election: Michael Clark – 275 Cross Road, Lunenburg, MA 01462. The Select Board Chair, Michael Ray Jeffery made a motion to vote on accepting the Cemetery Commission’s nominee – Michael Clark. It was an anonymous vote of both the members of the Select Board and the Cemetery Commission present at the joint meeting. Motion passed 7 to 0. Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, seconded by Vice-Chair and Clerk, David Dorren. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 7:40 PM – Motion Passed 2 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Clerk Electronic Signatures 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-04-25-agenda-6536.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-04-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-04-25-agenda-6536.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04252024-6536 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, April 25, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=86802399693 – Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review and Approve Minutes from March 14th and 19th 2024 meetings. 3. Historical Commission – Richard McGrath – discuss steps in preserving, protecting and development of the walls within Lunenburg Cemeteries. 4. Presentation and Discussion – Town of Lunenburg Fiscal Rules and Regulations Presentation/Cemetery Commission – Director of Municipal Finance/Town Accountant, Ezequiel Ayala a. Cemetery Sale of Lots Refund’s – must be voted and approved on by Cemetery Commission. 5. Discussion of re-organization of the Cemetery Commission – must be voted and approved. 6. DPW Director Updates and Discussions. 7. Discuss Open Items/Upcoming Projects. a. Next Steps for the 2024 Season – DPW Maintenance Plan. b. Ramaker – New Features/Next Steps and insight of all open graves for six family members together in a row. 8. Future Meeting Schedule – Third Thursday of each month – May 16, 2024. 9. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk Michael Clark, Member ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-04-25-minutes-6536.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-04-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-04-25-minutes-6536.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04252024-6536 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Thursday, April 25, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 9:00 AM – Call to Order – by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, other members present were David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk; Michael Clark, Member; Ezequiel Ayala JR., Finance Director/Town Accountant. Not present were Bill Bernard, DPW Director and Todd Holman, Cemetery Superintendent. Public attendance were John Bowen, Jeanmarie Price, Dave Rogers and Richard McGarth, Chair of Lunenburg Historical Commission. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko asked that everyone stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. John Bowen announced to the Commission that they were videoing today’s meeting. In public comments, Mr. Bowen again stated on why the Cemetery Commission should not decide which contractors should be allowed to be hired to do work at the cemetery based on what they have accomplished in the past. Mr. Bowen also continued to state that the Cemetery Commission should be abolished/dissolved even though it is approved by the Charter. Mr. Bowen noted that he is running as a write-in for the Commission, and is requesting the support of a 501(c)(3). Mr. David Rogers stated in public comment that he will give notice in writing to the chair on his topics he would like to discuss at a future cemetery commission meeting. Finance Director/Town Accountant Ezequiel Ayala, Jr., discussed the new Town of Lunenburg’s Turnover Policy – (Town of Lunenburg Fiscal Rules and Regulations Presentation) – going in front of the Select-Board for their thoughts and approval. Mr. Ayala also went over the procedure regarding the Cemetery Commissions Funds – discussing and laying out the Purpose: Sale of Lots – Fund 8115 Capital Article – Fund 3006 Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund Principal – Fund 8001 Interest – Fund 8000 Cemetery Gift – Fund 1548 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Clerk Michael Clark, Member ===PAGE 2=== Any expenses such as refund of the sale of lots, must be approved by and signed off by the Cemetery Commission before payment can be made by the Finance Director. Mr. Ayala was thanked for giving the Cemetery Commission and the public the overview of the Town’s Revenue Turnover Policy and the procedures going forward. Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko brought up that two families of the town were relocating, one family had hardship, and asked the town to refund the grave lots they purchased. In a vote of 3-0 the Cemetery Commission approved the refund. Richard McGarth, Chair of the Historical Commission discussed the following: 1. West Street Terrace – Lost family cemetery – farm was sold and developers destroyed some graves that were on the farm. Historical Commission trying to set up a memorial with granite curbing. 2. Fish Street – Richard has been working with the Cemetery Commission for last two years to set up a stone wall and gate around the Fish Street Cemetery. Richard said plans are in the works to start and finish this in the Fall of 2024. 3. The North and South Street Cemeteries forms have been filled out to show what is and is not part of the Historical Commission. If the Cemetery Commission is looking for grants to complete projects they should try the Community Preservation Act and grants from the Veteran Administration. The North, South and Fish Street Cemeteries needs to be researched and make sure that they are already entered onto the National Registers of Historic places. In a 3-0 vote the Cemetery Commission voted the Commissioners for the Year 2024 – 2025 to be: Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair; David Dorren, Vice-Chair; Michael Clark, Clerk. DPW Director Updates and Discussions were tabled till May 16, 2024 meeting along with the Ramaker discussions and illuminating the American Flag at the Cemetery since the DPW Director was not in attendance. Meeting Minutes: March 14, 2024 – Motion passed 2 to 0. Future Meeting Schedule Thursday, May 16, 2024. Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, seconded by Clerk, Michael Clark. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 10:25 AM – Motion Passed 3 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk Electronic Signatures ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-05-16-agenda-6574.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-05-16 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-05-16-agenda-6574.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05162024-6574 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, May 16, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=81474059825 – Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review and Approve Minutes from March 25, 2024 meeting. 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions. 4. Discuss Open Items/Upcoming Projects. a. Next Steps for the 2024 Season – DPW Maintenance Plan. b. Correspondence – Lunenburg Cemeteries. c. Ramaker – New Features/Next Steps and insight of all open graves for three family members and six family members together in a row. Some families are requesting a print out of all areas in the North Cemetery that are open for purchasing in a row. d. Request from a family at South Cemetery to include another gravestone to their three lots that were purchased. Right now there is one gravestone there. An additional one would need to added within the three lot section. Outside the Rules and Regulations, but can be approved if the Cemetery Commission makes a motion and votes on this request. e. Plan for flowers for both entrances at the North and South Cemetery needs to be discussed and voted on. f. Illumination solar lights for both South and North Cemetery flag poles to be discussed and voted on. g. Oldest section of gravestones washing and repair project phases discussion. h. Grass/grubs damage within both cemeteries. Past burials are not growing grass, which families are upset. 5. Future Meeting Schedule – Third Thursday of each month – June 13, 2024. 6. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-05-16-minutes-6574.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-05-16 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-05-16-minutes-6574.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05162024-6574 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Thursday, May 16, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 9:02 AM – Call to Order – The Cemetery Commission Meeting was called to order at 9:02 AM by Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko, other members present were David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Michael Clark, Clerk. Also present in attendance was Bill Bernard, DPW Director. Public attendance: David Rogers and David Passios. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko asked that everyone stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. No Recording by the Audience. Public Comments: Mr. David Rogers mentioned that the Town Charter was convoluted. Is anyone taking car of the lawns at the cemeteries in Lunenburg? Where are the flags at the North Cemetery for Memorial Day? Mr. David Passios echoed Mr. Rogers comments stating that the Charter and By Laws are a total mess. They reflect no improvements in policy on Parks and Cemeteries. The Chair, Foss-Yasko asked the public for their comments on the cemetery conditions going into Memorial Day weekend. She then read a letter that she received from one of the former Lunenburg residents regarding conditions of the North Cemetery when visiting her late husband’s grave. Michael Clark and David Dorren, spoke on their summation of the current conditions. The DPW Director, Bernard stated he spoke with the person that the Chair related to over the phone and addressed some of her concerns. The Chair reiterated the need to address community members’ concerns. The DPW Director Bernard briefed the commission on Spring cleanup work and daily work since April 8, 2024. 1) Flag Raising, Stream monitoring, grass mowing began this week. 2) Bill reached out to six landscape companies to get pricing. Lakeview was best price, others had availability, two not available, one would not give price. The DPW went on an hourly rate rather then a fixed price. 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk ===PAGE 2=== 3) Started work this week at the North Cemetery, weed whacking by the Department of Corrections – postponed due to rain. 4) DPW will have the Cemeteries in shape for Memorial Day weekend. 5) One mower with a blown motor. 6) Will have available two big mowers to use. 7) Six burials and two cremations since April 8, 2024. 8) Two seasonal workers need to be approved. Resident – Mr. Rogers questioned on what the duties are for the Cemetery Superintendent since before this Superintendent the previous person did all the cemeteries, and keep them in great shape. The Vice-Chair, Dorren discussed that the pumps need work, had a hard time with them. The DPW Director, Bernard discussed that they may need to be primed. The Clerk, Clark asked on the man hours to mow. The DPW Director, Bernard replied that it takes 40 hours in North Cemetery and 20 hours in the South Cemetery. A week and a half in total. The Chair, Foss-Yasko stated that she will meet with the DPW Director, Bernard to review the maintenance plan. The DPW Director, Bernard stated that the American Flags for our Veterans will be going up next week. The Vice-Chair, Dorren made a motion to accept the April 26th meeting minutes, Commissioner Michael Clark, seconded the motioned: motion passed 3-0. The Chair, Foss-Yasko discussed Lakeview’s quote to trim shrubs at South Cemetery - $2,625.00. The Town Manager reviewed and requested a more detailed description change. DPW Director, Bernard asked if this is the right time of year to prune? Chair, Foss-Yasko will follow-up with Lakeview. Commissioner Michael Clark, would like to review the shrubs with this in mind. Chair, Foss-Yasko will make a motion to approve at the June’s meeting. The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko spoke with a family member that would like to add an additional stone to their family grave-site in South Cemetery. The DPW Director, Bill Bernard reviewed and state that we can accommodate this. Vice-Chair, David Dorren made a motion to allow the second headstone on the family grave-site. Commissioner Clark, seconded the motion. Motion was passed 3-0. The Chair will contact the family. The Chair, Foss-Yasko, said another family would like to add a memorial on their gravestone for a member not interned. Members discussed the proposal, and concluded that there is no issue with the cemetery rules to add the inscription. Topic of flowers was brought up for the front entrance of North and South Cemeteries – current person stepping away – due to lack of watering help. The DPW Director, Bernard will reach out to Lakeview to see if they can accommodating planting flowers for both entrances. The Chair Foss-Yasko, asked the Commission if we are all in agreement to pay for the flowers for North and South Cemeteries for no more than $500.00. Vice-Chair, Dorren made a motion to have Lakeview provide the planting of flowers, up to $500.00; Commissioner Michael Clark, seconded the motion. Motion passed 3-0. DPW Director, Bernard stated the DPW will be providing water for the season. The Chair, Foss-Yasko discussed solar lights for the flags at both North and South Cemeteries. DPW Director, Bernard will reach out to their electrician. We will discuss more about this at our next meeting. Other topics briefly discussed and tabled until the next meeting included: Stone maintenance, 2800 stones, 1000 need to be repaired, skirt in South Cemetery needs to be completed. Fish Street – the labor will be donated: Cemetery Commission will buy supplies for gate and wall to be started and completed in Fall/2024. Discussed Maintenance Plan – grub control, weed killer, fertilizer, loam, over-seeding. The DPW Director, Bill Benard stated the Pesticides and Herbicides require a license, which the Town does not have. A consultant last year recommended price of $50K. Commissioner Michael Clark, asked what is the School Departments field maintenance plan look like? Do they have a schedule and licenses? DPW Director, Bernard will look into this. ===PAGE 3=== Future Meeting Schedule Thursday, June 20, 2024. Motion was made to adjourn by Chair, Foss-Yasko, seconded by Clerk, Michael Clark. With no further discussion, meeting was adjourned at 10:35 AM – Motion Passed 3 to 0. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk Electronic Signatures ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-06-20-agenda-6616.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-06-20 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-06-20-agenda-6616.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06202024-6616 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, June 20, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=89849333505 – Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review and Approve Minutes from May 16, 2024 meeting. 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions. 4. Discuss Open Items/Upcoming Projects. a. Next Steps for the 2024 Season – DPW Maintenance Plan. b. Investigate the use of robotic mowers – researched done by Michael Clark, Clerk. c. C. Allen Headstone Trust. d. South Cemetery – four burial plots that were purchased. Family would like permission to put in one gravestone (4x1) center of the four plots. Outside the Rules and Regulations, but can be approved if the Cemetery Commission makes a motion and votes on this request. e. Ramaker – New Features/Next Steps and insight of all open graves for three family members and six family members together in a row. Some families are requesting a print out of all areas in the North Cemetery that are open for purchasing in a row. f. Illumination solar lights for both South and North Cemetery flag poles to be discussed and voted on. g. Oldest section of gravestones washing and repair project phases discussion. h. Grass/grubs damage within both cemeteries. Past burials are not growing grass, which families are upset. 5. Future Meeting Schedule – Third Thursday of each month – July 18, 2024. 6. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-06-20-minutes-6616.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-06-20 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-06-20-minutes-6616.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06202024-6616 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Thursday, June 20, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. Is there anyone today that wishes to record this meeting with their own devices? The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment. 9:03 AM – Call to Order – The Cemetery Commission Meeting was called to order at 9:03 AM. In attendance was Nancy Foss- Yasko, Chair, David Dorren, Vice-Chair and Michael Clark, Clerk. Public attendance: David Rogers The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko asked that everyone to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. Also present arriving later at the meeting, was Town Manager Heather R. Lemieux. No Recording by the Audience. Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko recognized that it is National Police Week, and thanked them for their service in the community. The Open Meeting Law notice posted on the agenda was then read. Vice-Chair Dorren made a motion to approved the minutes of May 16, 2024. Motion approved 3-0. The Commission Reviewed DPW Directors report - Burials & Cremations & Seasonal Mowing statistics. Public Comments: David Rogers mentioned that he was frustrated with the mowing of the cemeteries. Wanted to know what was being done to make sure the cemeteries were taken care of consistently. Mr. David Passios echoed Mr. Rogers comments stating that the Charter and By Laws are a total mess. They reflect no improvements in policy on Parks and Cemeteries. DWP Director Bill Bernard was absent from this meeting, and therefore; could not answer Mr. Rogers’ Comments. Vice-Chair David Dorren – noted that we are not in charge of the cemeteries, it is the DPW. Clerk Mike Clark – we create regulations, DPW runs to them. 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk ===PAGE 2=== The Chair, Nancy Foss-Yasko discussed the Barthol C. Allen Trust Fund. This was learned from the DPW Director Bill Bernard that there was a trust fund for cleaning gravestones from a particularly family, but no more information was available at this time. Further research of the accounts will be requested. Motion to approve oversize Headstone: Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko mentioned that a family that owns four plots next to each other in the South Cemetery, asked to purchase one headstone for the four plots. After discussion by the Cemetery Commission, the Commission approved 3-0 the family to have one headstone for the four plots. The size of the headstone to be 4×1 feet. Clerk Mike Clark – presented his robot mower survey. Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko – discussed Ramaker, paperwork and completion – not until winter months. Illumination of lights in North Cemetery – DPW director to quote running electricity into North & South Cemetery. Also, reviewing solar lights. Oldest section of Cemetery gravestones washing and repair. Should be $22,000 revised to $38,500. Grass/Grub damage discussed – A local lawn maintenance contractor provided a quote. Clerk Mike Clark – recommended to use compost from Youngs Road. Town Manager Heather Lemieux - Need to put funding in the budget to mow cemeteries to expectations. Motion to Adjourn: Vice-Chair David Dorren made the motion to adjourn at 10:56AM: Clerk Mile Clark seconded the motion. Motion passed 3-0. Next Cemetery Commission Meeting scheduled for July 25, 2024 Respectfully submitted Lunenburg Cemetery Commission ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-07-25-agenda-6673.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-07-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-07-25-agenda-6673.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07252024-6673 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, July 25, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=87647334324 – Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review and Approve Minutes from June 20, 2024 meeting. 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions. 4. Discuss Open Items/Upcoming Projects. a. Review of DPW Maintenance Plan. b. Illumination solar lights quote for both South and North Cemetery flag poles. c. Family Plot Refund – discussion on future refunds and review of paperwork that is presented to a family when purchasing plot. d. Financial Bartholomew & Company discussion. e. Finance Committee upcoming meeting on the 8th of August. f. ARPA Funding Opportunity – approximately $313K in funding that has not been committed to projects. Proposals needs to be submitted to the Select-Board by July 31, 2024 – 4:00PM. Discussion on projects that the Cemetery Commission would like to see submitted for possible approval by the Select-Board. g. On-going investigation of the use of robotic mowers – researched complete by Michael Clark, Clerk. h. Lakeview quote – South Cemetery hedges trimming - $2,625.00. i. Ramaker – (1) Professional Service License - $1,200 and (1) Maintenance Support - $800.00. Discussion for additional license. 5. Future Meeting Schedule – Third or Fourth Thursday of each month – August 22, 2024. 6. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-07-25-minutes-6673.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-07-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-07-25-minutes-6673.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07252024-6673 ======================================================================================== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION 342900128270 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Mike Clark, Clerk 00 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Mike Clark, Clerk 476137297932 476137297932 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 320689210789 MEETING MINUTES Thursday, July 25, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room 9:00 AM – The Cemetery Commission Meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM. In attendance was Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair; David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Commissioner Mike Clark, Clerk Also in attendance was Bill Bernard - DPW Superintendent. Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko asked everyone to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. No Recording by the Audience. Lunenburg Public access Recording of Meeting: Cemetery Commission 07.25.24 (youtube.com) Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko read open meeting law introduction Public Comment – Dave Rodgers, 82 Highland Street, commented on North Cemetery, observed grounds is in great shape and employees on the job. Commissioner Clark asked the Chair if the open meeting law notification must be on the Agenda/Minutes.  The Chair responded that she would look into it but stated that she was advised by the Select Board to incorporate them into the Commissions proceedings. Review and Approve Minutes from June 20, 2024, meeting. David Dorren, Vice-Chair motioned to approve the minutes, Commissioner Clark seconded. All in favor (AIF). The minutes were approved by the Commission 3-0. Bill Bernard, DPW Director gave the following report since the last meeting in June: 6 burials, 1 full burial - 5 cremations Mowing statistics during summer season. Commented on improved cutting conditions with dryer weather All grass cut before July 4th, 170-man hours, grass growth rate slowing down from 1 inch per day to 1 inch per week, commented on continuing cuts and conditions. 1 seasonal worker leaving in 2 weeks, second laborer starting, 3rd laborer being hired to replace 1st one. Dept. of corrections has limited availability – Labor Day is next time available. DPW Director Bill Bernard to check numbers and ask town for more money to manicure the cemeteries.  Open Items/Upcoming Projects were discussed. Solar illumination lights quote for both South and North Cemetery flag poles. Lights will be Top Pole mounted, shine down, Bill Bernard also stated the cost of solar lights on the flag poles in North and South Cemeteries to be $650.  Motion made to approve the solar lights.  David Dorren, Vice-Chair - motioned to approve purchase of lights in the North & South cemetery for $650.00, Commissioner Clark seconded, vote AIF, Motion passed 3-0. Bill Bernard will coordinate installation with electrician. Plan on installation in next few weeks. Family Plot Refund, Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko and the commission discussed the Hughey family requesting a refund for 4 plots at South Cemetery that they purchased in 1988.  They moved out of the Commonwealth and requested a refund.  Bill Bernard, DPW Director recommended that the $200 for the burial rights be refunded but not to refund the $300 for perpetual care nor the $150 for the burial as those services had been provided.  The commission discussed the logistics of plot refunds in general and this specific refund. Commissioner Clark motioned to refund $200 to the family for the return of 4 burial lots to the cemetery department, David Dorren, Vice-Chair seconded, AIF. Motion passed 3-0. A question came up regarding the deeds to all plots where the Cemetery Commission returns money to the families. DPW Director Bill Bernard to check into the transfer back of the cemetery plot deed transfer back. Chair Yasko to look into with attorney Costs how and when the deeds are transferred back to the Town of Lunenburg. Financial Bartholomew & Company discussion. Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko spoke to the Cemeteries Funds, “Sale of lots” funds - $88k, making $1800 in interest. Other years presented. Discussed rates of return that Town Accountant provided to the Chair. DPW Director Bill Bernard to check numbers and ask town for more money to manicure the cemeteries.  On-going investigation of the use of robotic mowers – researched complete by Michael Clark, Clerk. Brief update – Commissioner Clark to send Bill Bernard the presentation, talk to green communities, can a pilot demo be set up? Discussion on Lakeview to trim the South Cemetery Shrubs for $2,625.  David Dorren, Vice-Chair motioned to accept Lakeview’s proposal of $2625.00 to trim & prune in South Cemetery, Commissioner Clark seconded, AIF - Motion passed 3-0 Ramaker, discussion for additional license. – (1) Professional Service License - $1,200 and (1) Maintenance Support - $800.00. David Dorren, Vice-Chair motioned we pay Ranmaker $2000.00, Commissioner Clark seconded, AIF Motion passed 3-0 Allen stone cleaned $350.00, trust has been spent down Commission discussed Stone & bench cleaning – potential harm to materials, Commissioner Clark mentioned use of chemicals to clean, start with granite benches South Cemetery Flagpole Concrete Skirt Project– Discussed completing project per the quote DPW Superintendent Bill Bernard presented. Commissioner Clark motioned to approve funding to Skirt Project at South Cemetery: Motion not to exceed $3500.00, David Dorren, Vice-Chair seconded, AIF. Motion passed 3-0 The Commission discussed the North Cemetery vacant back field area – 80 – 100 lots open in current cemetery DPW Superintendent Bill Bernard stated that 40 burials per year, last year 23 burials. Field area has upwards of 800 plots The Commission discussed the ARPA Funding Opportunity – approximately $313K in funding remains that has not been committed to projects. Proposals need to be submitted to the Select-Board by July 31, 2024 – 4:00PM. Discussion on projects that the Cemetery Commission would like to see submitted for possible approval by the Select-Board. Chair Nancy Foss-Yasko is asking State Rep Kushmerek to earmark money, $285k for both cemeteries Motion to ask Select Board for ARPA Funding Site Planning for $38,500 to Repair and Clean Stones in North and South Cemetery.  Commissioner Clark motioned for $38,500 K for stone repair and cleaning and $7,405 for back field, David Dorren, Vice-Chair seconded, AIF. Motion passed 3-0 Public comments, Dave Rodgers how many new plot sales/year are there? Why would we have outside companies do backside field work? And really does not understand what perpetual care is. Asked plot costs. David Dorren, Vice-Chair & Bill Bernard dialoged with Mr. Rogers. Daveid Doreen, Vice Chair requested a firm count on open lots from Bill Bernard, North & South Cemetery. Motion to Adjourn at 10:40am: David Dorren motioned, Mike Clark seconded, AIF, Motion passed 3-0. lefttop ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-11-21-agenda-6851.txt BOARD : cemetery-commission DATE : 2024-11-21 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/cemetery-commission/2024-11-21-agenda-6851.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11212024-6851 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG CEMETERY COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday, November 21, 2024 – 9:00AM Lunenburg Town Hall – Bilotta Meeting Room AGENDA In accordance with the requirement of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. Remote Participation – Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=89596443894 – Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair, so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record the meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress, (such as passing a note for the chair). The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. Public participation is encouraged and public comments may be welcome during committee member discussions at the discretion of the Chair. Please note during Public Comment that you have three minutes to give your Public Comment – Thank you… 9:00 AM – Call to Order 1. Public Comment 2. Review and Approve Minutes from July 25, 2024 meeting. 3. DPW Director Updates and Discussions. 4. Discuss Open Items/Upcoming Projects. a. Review DPW/Cemetery Capital Funding Projects. b. Review possible obtained or eminent domain taken over by the Town of Lunenburg. c. Family Plot Refund – discussion on future refunds and review of paperwork that is presented to a family when purchasing plot. d. Ramaker – (1) Professional Service License - $1,200 and (1) Maintenance Support - $800.00. Discussion for additional license. 5. Future Meeting Schedule – Third or Fourth Thursday of each month – December 19, 2024 6. Adjourn 17 Main Street, P. O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462 978-582-4144 Fax 978-582-4148 Nancy Foss-Yasko, Chair David Dorren, Vice-Chair Michael Clark, Clerk