Harwich is taking steps to ensure residents buried in unmarked plots are no longer forgotten. During the May 8 meeting of the Cemetery Commission, officials established a new internal policy to provide permanent markers for graves older than 75 years where no family can be located. Funded through the town’s perpetual care account, the initiative aims to bring dignity to indigent burials and historical plots that have lacked headstones for decades. Commission Chair Steve emphasized the importance of the shift, noting that this should come from the perpetual care account. If we find an unmarked grave and no family can be found within a reasonable time, we should quietly mark it.

Motion Made by S. [Chair] to establish an internal policy to mark graves older than 75 years if no family can be located, funded by the perpetual care fund. Motion Passed (2-0-0). To carry out the work, the department plans to alternate contracts between local vendors to distribute the town's business fairly. Motion Made by S. [Chair] to solicit estimates from Tom Blute and John Fuia for the markers. Motion Passed (2-0-0).

The policy change arrives as the town faces dwindling inventory at Island Pond Cemetery. Cemetery Administrator Robin informed the board that the department has begun selling lots originally intended as a buffer for the neighboring bike trail to meet demand. Once that space is gone, it’s gone, Robin said, adding that there is currently no additional land available to commandeer. This prompted questions from member Rob regarding the accessibility of burial records. We don't have a list somewhere of all available lots? he asked. Robin explained that while physical paper maps remain the primary record, efforts are underway to digitize availability on the town website to assist funeral homes when staff are unavailable.

Maintenance and budget oversight occupied a significant portion of the session. The commission reviewed the recent $9,047 purchase of a maintenance mower and addressed urgent landscaping needs. To combat invasive Japanese knotweed and other growth at Mount Pleasant, Bank Street, and Island Pond cemeteries, the board authorized a $1,600 expenditure for professional weed removal. Motion Made by S. [Chair] to authorize and pay for Warren Nichols Landscaping to do the weed removal and take it out of the revolving fund. Motion Passed (2-0-0). Following these expenses, the commission’s revolving fund is expected to maintain a balance of approximately $24,155.

Looking toward long-term infrastructure, the commission began preliminary discussions for a columbarium or cremation wall project. With more families opting for cremation, officials viewed the potential five-year project as a necessary evolution for Harwich’s cemeteries. Robin noted she would research designs, such as octagonal or curved stone sections, during an upcoming professional development trip. Motion Made by R. Doane to authorize payment for Robin to attend the New England Cemetery Association annual meeting. Motion Passed (2-0-0).

The commission also addressed immediate seasonal needs, including the town’s transition to Level 2 drought restrictions effective May 1. While Harwich cemeteries utilize wells for hand-watering, the board is monitoring water levels at the Island Pond lily pond, which Robin noted is nowhere near where it used to be. Preparations are also finalized for Memorial Day services, which will be held Monday, May 26, at 9:30 AM at the Brooks Park gazebo, featuring speaker Kathleen O'Donoghue.

In a final effort to support volunteer preservation, the board moved to purchase five stone cleaning kits and ten gallons of specialized solution to facilitate community cleaning classes. Motion Made by S. [Chair] to purchase stone cleaning kits and D2 solution and authorize cleaning classes. Motion Passed (2-0-0). Robin noted the classes are essential because people use too much solution if they aren't shown how to do it properly.