Oak Hill Cemetery

This letter is being sent to address concerns of infrastructure and ongoing maintenance regarding the Oak Hill Cemetery located in Lake Placid.
Our parents started visiting Lake Placid over 50 years ago, purchase property and have lived there full time for over 25 years. Our father (deceased since 2005) would many times refer to Lake Placid as God's country. However, the town does not seem so special when visiting the cemetery; as we understand, a town responsibility.
It is difficult enough to lose a loved one but when visiting the cemetery which is in such disrepair; it only creates additional sadness and anxiety. Mom and dad decided a long time ago that they wanted to remain in Lake Placid, even after burial. One might ask why.
It is our understanding that a sole part-time person has been responsible for maintaining the grounds. Those who have visited the cemetery know and understand why complaints have been lodged over the situation. My mother and brother have indicated there have not been visible changes since my visit last August. I would suggest that those who have not had the pleasure take a look for yourself. If you were to have a loved one there, undoubtedly you would also be concerned of the conditions there. Not only is it obvious that maintenance has been deferred but clearly there really is not proper infrastructure for a cemetery to start with. Upon entering, a utility building is the first thing seen which is an eyesore. Unpaved roads and dead lawn along with overgrown shrubs and weeds adds to such a sight.
The town holds a special place with our family and others as well.
Is a bit of paint the resolution? No. Serious work must be accomplished after which; rules need to be understood in order to align with ongoing maintenance.
We urge the town to make this a budgetary priority as other areas of the budget have been in the past. It is with great hope that immediate strides are made with the above concerns.
Margaret Baucom
Lake Placid