At Tuesday’s meeting of the Brownwood City Council, approval was given for the hiring of a cemetery consultant to review the operations of Greenleaf Cemetery.

Greenleaf Cemetery is City-owned property, but has been operated for many years by the non-profit organization known as the Greenleaf Cemetery Association.  Lately the Association has struggled financially, due to fewer burials, stolen funds, and uncollected monies owed to the Association.  At the last City Council meeting on April 9 the Association requested funds from the City to allow it to continue operating.  The Council took no action at that meeting.

Today’s action authorizes City Manager Emily Crawford to “procure the services of a cemetery consultant to review the operations of the Greenleaf Cemetery.”  After the meeting Crawford said that she will first contact the Texas Cemetery and Cremation Association.  Perhaps they will have a consultant available, or can refer one to us.  Crawford also said that the City of Brownwood wants to help ensure the stability of Greenleaf Cemetery, but believes advice from a cemetery consultant is needed before any decision is made.

Greenleaf Cemetery Association President Steve Harris said “We are totally in agreement with that.  We have been in communication with the City about that.  This is an idea they had that we agree with and look forward to working with a consultant, and to move Greenleaf Cemetery forward.”

As to the current situation at Greenleaf, Harris said that they are continuing to operate, including plot sales and burials.  The grounds crew has been reduced, and currently consists of one full-time employee and two part-time employees, so maintenance of the grounds will be limited.  This week the Brown County Commissioners voted to make labor available to Greenleaf from County Jail inmates, although the amount of labor available will be limited.