Public input sought on cemeteries

Between now and Memorial Day, McCook's new director of public works hopes to complete a review and come up with recommendations for Riverview and Memorial Park cemeteries.

Kyle Potthoff, who became public works director in October 2004, says he will focus on two questions in the study: (1) How many remaining spaces are available in the cemeteries?; and (2) How many low stones and how many high stones can the cemeteries accommodate?

The questions need to be faced, Potthoff said, because McCook has surpassed the halfway point in the availability of grave sites, and must begin to consider how best to respond to future burial needs.

According to Potthoff, there are now three different designated areas in the cemeteries. One is restricted to high stones, another is limited to low stones and a third area allows a mixture of low-level and upright monuments.

"From a mowing standpoint, it makes little difference if a stone is low or high because the base size is close to the same and spin mowers can move around them," Potthoff said. The only difference from a maintenance standpoint is watering, since the upright stones can block the sprinklers' coverage.

Other cemetery issues to be considered are the public's preferences and whether unused lots in established parts of the cemetery are now available because owners have moved away, or died and been buried in other places.

The city's cemeteries contain a combined total of 18 acres. Riverview accounts for six of those acres; the other 12 are in Memorial Park. Chris Hall serves as McCook's cemetery sexton, and Elza Doak provides part-time assistance.

"I would appreciate any comments that the people of McCook might have concerning the cemeteries," Poffhoff said. Those with concerns or suggestions may reach the public works director by calling (308) 345-2022, extension 231, or by e-mailing him at potthoff@cityofmccook.com.

There have been concerns expressed about cemetery policies in recent months, so it is good that the city, through their public works director, is addressing the issue. Potthoff is to be commended for seeking the public's input. Concerned citizens, morticians and monument companies should take advantage of the opportunity to speak out, because, eventually, all families must face up to decisions about the final resting place of their loved ones.