Oxford City Exploring Enhanced Privacy Measures at Memorial Garden Cemetery amid Residents’ Concerns

City of Oxford Considering Measures for Enhanced Privacy at Memorial Cemetery

In the city of Oxford, local residents are pushing for improvements to privacy at the Oxford Memorial Garden Cemetery. After expressing their concerns during a recent city meeting, officials have agreed to explore options that may help enhance the privacy of those visiting their loved ones.

Residents living near the cemetery, notably Drew and Jill Stevens from Combs Street, initiated a petition on Change.org on July 15. The petition calls for better screening measures, and as of Monday, it has gathered an impressive 447 signatures. Although the issue was not formally part of Tuesday’s Board of Aldermen agenda, the Stevens were permitted to present their case directly to Mayor Robyn Tannehill and city officials.

Background of the Issue

The backdrop to this request traces back to a decision made by the city in 2022, when a clear-cutting was carried out along the cemetery’s border. This action was taken to address erosion issues after constructing a new concrete drainage ditch. Following the clearing, the city replanted the area with green giant arborvitae trees, which can eventually grow up to 40 to 50 feet but are currently only around 5 to 6 feet tall.

While these trees are expected to grow an additional 3 feet each year, community members, including the Stevens, argue that the immediate need for privacy is not being met. During the meeting, they indicated their surprise at the clear-cutting and felt misled about the replanting plans, believing larger trees would be installed.

City’s Commitment to Privacy Improvements

Mayor Tannehill echoed the city’s commitment to finding a solution but clarified that any additional trees or bushes planted would grow at a similar pace to the current arborvitae. Mark Levy, the city’s special projects director, elaborated on the difficulties faced in selecting appropriate trees due to the narrow planting area and various environmental factors.

“We felt the green giant arborvitae were the best choice,” Levy explained. “They are more disease tolerant and faster growing, plus they have a decent lifespan.” However, he admitted that finding large trees for immediate screening was not feasible at the time.

Exploring Different Solutions

During discussions, Alderman Brian Hyneman suggested alternatives if additional tree planting was not feasible. He proposed that city officials look into improving the existing chain-link fence around the cemetery by adding slats or even constructing a solid wood fence. “I think doing something about the fence is something we can, and should explore,” he stated.

There was no immediate vote on these ideas, but the Board of Aldermen asked city staff to research possible fencing options and report back. The Stevens have requested that when any plans are publicly discussed, residents and families of those interred should have the opportunity to share their views during a public hearing.

Personal Accounts Highlight Privacy Needs

One of the concerned family members is Brandall Laughlin, who lost her 14-year-old son in an accident eight years ago and visits the cemetery regularly. She highlighted the shift in privacy, stating, “There is no buffer whatsoever between the neighborhood and the cemetery now.”

Laughlin emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful environment for grieving families. “It is very important to maintain the sanctity of the space for mourning mamas like myself, as well as the countless others that visit the cemetery each week…” she asserted.

As discussions continue, the Oxford community remains hopeful that their calls for increased privacy at the cemetery will be met with action. Residents are eager to see a plan that respects both their need for privacy and provides a serene space for families to remember their loved ones.