Lori Boren

The commission discussed the maintenance of cemetery records, including the completion of a documents project and the purchase of a laptop for commission use. Plans were discussed for John Heider's visit, focusing on restoration and preservation efforts, and the need for assistance during the educational and hands-on sessions. The commission agreed that the mowing and trimming of the cemetery grounds were satisfactory and considered the addition of metal arches over the driveway entrances. They also discussed promoting the cemetery through various channels and a collaboration opportunity with SAPIC and SHSI for the nation's 250th birthday celebration.

The meeting involved a discussion and consideration of approving the final plat for Stonebrook 9th Addition to the City of Mount Vernon. City staff recommended against approval at the time due to the subdivision ordinance requiring substantial completion of improvements before accepting the final plat, which had not yet occurred.

The commission discussed and took action on several site plans, including the Mount Vernon Dental Site Plan and the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Police Station Site Plan. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding possible amendments to the code of ordinances to promote the use of accessory dwelling units, with a decision to seek input from an outside agency such as ECICOG.

The meeting involved a public hearing, discussion, and consideration of an application for conditional use for the installation of a ground-mounted solar system at 302 Hwy 1 South. The board discussed zoning requirements, potential options for ground installation, and conditional approval subject to compliance with existing zoning regulations, including setback requirements and landscape screening elements based on US Hwy 30 Overlay design standards.

The Cemetery Commission meeting addressed concerns raised by a guest regarding leash laws for dogs, the need for a trash can, police surveillance for drug deals, and the removal of a damaged bench. The Mount Vernon Masonic Lodge #112 approved funds for the repair of grave markers. There was also discussion of establishing cemetery policies and regulations, which was tabled. Goals pertaining to records and documents maintenance, monument and headstone restoration, grounds maintenance and landscaping, and promoting and publicizing the cemetery were discussed. Other topics included a report on cemetery information entered into an Excel database, the removal of a fence and flagged trees, and organizing the cemetery garage for artifact storage.