The Taylor City Council meeting on January 23, 2025, focused on the upcoming unveiling and dedication of a monument recognizing the historical African American burial section at the Taylor Cemetery. The presentation was led by Morgan Cook, who detailed the collaborative efforts with the Taylor Heritage Society to honor the many unmarked graves in this area.

Cook explained that the initiative began three years ago, aiming to bring attention to the historical significance of the burial section, which had become obscured over time. The unveiling event is scheduled for February 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM, where speakers will address attendees, and arrangements will be made for seating and shade.

The new cemetery software will allow visitors to locate graves, including GPS coordinates for the historical section. Cook emphasized the importance of this project, particularly for families seeking to find their loved ones, as many graves lacked markers. The software will enable searches by name, providing access to obituaries and directions to specific graves.

Council members expressed their gratitude for the efforts of the Heritage Society and the city staff in making this project possible. Frances Sorrow, a board member of the Heritage Society, acknowledged the contributions of various organizations and individuals, including the Leah Livingston Foundation, which provided a grant for the monument.

The council unanimously approved a motion to receive the presentation and accepted the invitation to the unveiling event. Additionally, discussions included ongoing efforts to level headstones in the cemetery, with plans for a workshop to educate community members on proper maintenance techniques.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to preserving its history and honoring the contributions of the African American community in Taylor. The dedication event is anticipated to draw significant community interest, marking a meaningful step in recognizing the legacy of those buried in the cemetery.