The annual meeting of the board of trustees and plot holders of the Greenfield Cemetery was held on May 10 at 7:30pm in the Chapel.
All board members were present and Annie Ariss chaired the meeting.
Members reviewed the maintenance activities of 2010 and noted the many hours spent cleaning up branches and trees after the wind storms and the many hours of grass-cutting and trimming after the heavy rain storms.
Members felt they need to repair and replace some fencing and roadways and remove or trim the overgrown shrubs and trees, plus the regular maintenance of the property.
In the review of the financial statement, which showed a small amount of income over expense, the board felt it would be wise to raise its schedule of rates to be effective July 1, pending approval from the Department of Consumer Affairs of Ontario.
Previously, the board introduced increases in September 2004, and in January 2009. Members prefer making small increases more often to keep pace with rising costs.
The new rates are available by calling Ariss or superintendent Mark Goetz at 519-848-3380, secretary-treasurer Peggy Dixon at 519-848-3216 or salesperson Joyce Culp at 519-848-2900.
There is a greater trend towards burials of cremated remains. Sales of plots in the designated cremation area have been successful and, to this end, the board moved to construct a second area. It will continue across the roadway in the same line from the present site to the fence and will hold 60 plots.
The tender from Don Tremble Contracting was accepted and construction will take place through this summer to be completed by October.
The board regrets that it will be necessary to request the removal of some newly planted shrubs at a few new gravesites. The board will be sending notices to these plot holders and families regarding this request.
Everyone who purchases a plot receives a copy of the bylaws of Greenfield Cemetery, specifically pages 5 and 6, sections 11 (a,b,c), 14(b) and 19, which outline the rules for plantings around tombstones and gravesites.
By following these bylaws, the board can continue maintenance in a safe and timely manner and keep the cemetery as beautiful as possible.
Any questions or concerns regarding Greenfield Cemetery should be directed to any of the board members as listed above or John Beer at 519-848-2503, Rod Kidnie at 519-848-3582, Allan McEachern at 519-848-2515 or Patricia Waters at 519-848-2555. The board is willing to help with concerns and will appreciate suggestions.
Decoration Day is planned for Aug. 14.
submitted by Annie Ariss
