Halifax Cemetery Commission 

Town of Halifax, Vermont

DRAFT Meeting Minutes for March 24, 2023

CALL TO ORDER – 9:01 AM

CHANGES AND/OR ADDITIONS TO AGENDA – None

NEW BUSINESS

Regulations Governing Town Cemeteries – The commission reviewed the proposed draft regulations based on other town regulations and made several changes. The regulations will be reviewed again at the next meeting, prior to adoption. 

Private Cemeteries and Private Property – in the regulations.

Green Burials – in the regulations 

Managing Trees, Shrubs, and Bushes – deferred 

VOCA Grant for Stump Removal in Bascom Cemetery – a big tree came down and should be removed ($600); fill will also need to be brought in. VOCA grant monies must be matched by the town; Cemetery Commission budget may not be sufficient to cover this $600. Mowing will cost more than the amount in the budget, so the commissioners will ask the mower to mow all cemeteries before Memorial Day then not mow outlying cemeteries in June-August. Last year’s mowing was over $5,000. We will try to keep the mowing in 2023 at this level. 

Cost per Plot – Current rates were discussed and fixed at $200 for residents, $400 for non-resident landowners, and $600 for non-residents with a family connection to Halifax, Vermont. This information was added to the proposed regulations in a fee schedule. 

Cremains Consolidation – in the regulations

Other Business – None. 

Hearing of the Visitors – A citizen would like to buy a plot in Hatch Cemetery; the Commissioners will follow up with the appropriate persons. 

ADJOURNMENT – 10:25 AM