During a recent government meeting, members of the Mountain Green Cemetery Board, Vicky Benson and Sandy, presented urgent concerns regarding the cemetery's capacity and the need for additional burial resources in Morgan County. Established in 1860, the Mountain Green Cemetery has undergone significant expansion, growing from 0.54 acres to approximately 2 acres, accommodating around 1,700 plots. However, as of September 1, 2024, the cemetery will no longer be a viable burial option due to the depletion of available plots and restrictions on further expansion.

Benson highlighted that the cemetery is surrounded by private properties, leaving no room for growth. She noted that while there are other cemeteries in the county, most have limited availability, with the Peterson Cemetery being the only one with plots open to non-residents. The board members emphasized the pressing need for a plan to address the lack of burial spaces, especially in light of ongoing development in the area.

Sandy proposed the idea of setting aside land for future cemetery use and suggested exploring the possibility of a dedicated tax line to fund cemetery operations. The board expressed willingness to collaborate with the county to find solutions, emphasizing the community's strong volunteer spirit.

County officials acknowledged the issue, noting that cemeteries are typically funded through plot sales and donations. They discussed potential avenues for establishing a special service district to manage cemetery operations and funding, although the feasibility of creating a cemetery-specific taxing entity remains uncertain under current state laws.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussions on the matter, recognizing the importance of addressing the community's burial needs as development continues in Morgan County.