The Harwich Cemetery Commission closed out the fiscal year with a focus on historical preservation and significant infrastructure investment, including the identification of 450 local Revolutionary War soldiers for a future granite memorial. Administrator Robin noted that the research involved extensive cross-referencing with the town of Yarmouth to ensure accuracy and avoid duplication. I want it published in the Chronicle so if someone has a relative I didn't find, they can come to me before we put it in granite, she explained, highlighting the commission’s efforts to finalize the list for the Community Preservation Committee-funded project.

Financial oversight dominated much of the session, as the department navigated a year of unusually high expenditures. Robin reported a department expense budget of $5,771 for the year, which saw a $1,210.70 overage. This gap was bridged using funds from the cemetery revolving account. Total expenditures for the year reached $82,565.33, driven by a $21,000 walkway project and the purchase of two new mowers totaling over $17,000. Chair Rob Doane pointed to a strategic shift in the town's perpetual care funds to Rockland Trust as a vital source of revenue, noting, Since we've moved it, we have gotten substantial increases which we can use for expenditures.

However, a recurring administrative hurdle remains regarding the transfer of these funds. Rob Doane asked for an update on missing money, referring to funds intended for the perpetual care trust that have reportedly remained in town treasury accounts for two years without being moved to interest-bearing accounts. Robin clarified that while the money is accounted for, it has failed to collect interest for the commission's use. Every month I deposit money, but it's not collecting interest for us, she said, promising to follow up with the accounting department again.

Landscaping efforts saw a boost after the commission discovered $9,000 remaining in an old tree fund. Two new trees were recently planted at the town arboretum, bringing the collection to 114 different species. To properly label the new additions, the commission addressed signage needs. Motion Made by R. Doane to approve spending $926.75 for 41 new tree signs from Precision Signs. Motion Passed 2-0-0.

Maintenance Lead Jim Stratton reported that the fence at Union Cemetery, completed just weeks ago as an Eagle Scout project, has already been damaged by a vehicle and requires repair. Stratton also discussed the challenge of managing steep hills at Island Pond, where Rob Doane suggested using growth inhibitors to reduce the difficulty of mowing. If we trimmed it all off and sprayed it, it might help because it looks like crap in two weeks, Doane said. Stratton expressed caution regarding town-wide chemical use, stating, I've gotten conflicting reports on views of spraying in general. There are some people that are extremely anti-spraying of any sort unless it's organic. Robin suggested exploring low-maintenance ground covers as a sustainable alternative for the steep terrain.

The meeting also marked the introduction of Steve Connor as the new Select Board liaison. Connor defined his role as a conduit for the commission rather than an active participant in deliberations. My role from what I understand it is just to be a conduit to the Select Board, Connor said. I'm not here to really participate per se, but if you need to make me aware of something, let me know. He also highlighted an upcoming resident taxpayer meeting on August 4, intended to brief seasonal residents on town operations.

In a win for historical preservation, the commission noted that the 1832 Samuel Trip burial ground, located on private property, is being recorded with the County Registry of Deeds to ensure permanent protection regardless of future property sales. Additionally, Robin reported that a mapping overhaul has successfully Googleized the town’s cemeteries, ensuring markers for the Harwich Veterans Memorial and various historic plots are now accurately reflected on digital maps.