Smithfield approves increase in burial fees for city cemetery

By Ash Schiller

March 24, 2005 | SMITHFIELD -- The City Council made a last-minute adjustment to the cemetery lot price for residents from the predetermined $300 down to $200 while finalizing fees Wednesday night.

The change was spurred by councilman Brent Buttars. "It seems like we've made an awful jump," he said. "I'm not completely comfortable yet."

As the council discussed the issue, most members agreed the change from $75 to $300 was too steep. William "Dee" Wood, however, said he was satisfied with the $300 price tag. "Seventy-five dollars was a steal, and $300 is still a bargain," he said.

Wood pointed out that $300 is within the range of what Logan City currently charges, and they are actually upping their fees.

Councilwoman Janice Mikkelsen, who is over the cemetery board, said she was torn between the two sides. "I think [the cemetery board] will be disappointed we didn't raise it more," she said. The crews are in great need of lawnmowers, clippers, a back hoe and money for new roads, she said.

Mayor Ray Winn said, "I don't think it's going to kill us. I would rather just raise the non-resident fees." Various councilmen agreed if the new fee is still insufficient for upkeep costs, the price could always be raised later.

The amendment to the cemetery fees passed 3-1. Plot sales will be available beginning Monday, and City Recorder O. Dean Clegg said he expects criticism. He said the complaints from some citizens will be just as bad whether the price is $300 or $200.

The new cemetery fees are: grave opening resident: $325; grave opening non-resident: $350; lot purchase resident: $200 (was $75); lot purchase non-resident: $650 (was $150); extra fee for weekend grave opening: $100 (was $50); after hours (4 p.m.) fee to the funeral home: $75.

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