State funding available to fix distressed cemeteries

The Division of Public Health would like to remind property owners that funding is available to support the many small and older cemeteries that often lack the funds for long-term care and maintenance. The Distressed Cemetery Fund was established in 2009 to provide for the preservation of cemeteries by supporting repair and improvement projects that are outside normal maintenance activities. Cemeteries must be registered before they can apply for Distressed Cemetery Funds.

The fund is overseen by the Delaware Cemetery Board and is maintained by receiving $2 from every death certificate sold and registration fees. Individuals and organizations may also make contributions or bequests to the Distressed Cemetery Fund. The maximum amount available from the fund to each cemetery is $10,000 every two years, but a financial assistance request must be matched with real dollars and/or documented volunteer hours.

Applications must be submitted two weeks before a scheduled board meeting, along with pictures of the area needing repairs, financial information, a small scale map and three written vendor quotes. By receiving funds, the applicant must agree to erect a sign (if none exist) with the cemetery name and contact telephone number in case of an emergency or vandalism. A written closeout report is required six months after the receipt of the award, along with pictures of the work completed, canceled checks to the vendor and vendor invoices paid.

In the past, funds have been used to repair tombstones and monuments; repair or replace fences and stone walls, gates or landscaping; remove trees and brush; purchase or repair lawn equipment;, purchase sheds, topsoil and seeding; or conducting perimeter surveys and plot plans.

In fiscal year 2016, seven cemeteries received awards totaling $62,437. 

The Division of Public Health would like to remind cemetery owners that state law requires them to register cemeteries with the division every five years (or until a change in ownership).  The registration fee is $10 and fines may be charged for expired registrations.

All theft or vandalism should immediately be reported to the local police. The board refers complaints to the police, Delaware Attorney General's Consumer Protection Agency, the Better Business Bureau or city or county officials.