Custer County officials are making strides in improving local funeral services with the planned installation of a cooler for deceased individuals. During the recent Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 22, 2025, a county representative shared insights from a recent experience that highlighted the need for better storage solutions for the deceased.

The representative recounted a situation where a body needed to be sent to a funeral home without embalming, emphasizing the urgency of having proper cooler storage. This experience underscored the importance of having a dedicated facility to handle such cases, particularly when cultural practices dictate specific handling of the deceased.

To address this need, the county has already purchased a storage container and is moving forward with plans to insulate it using spray foam. The insulation project, estimated at $2,640, is expected to fit within the existing budget, as the county is currently operating under budget constraints.

This initiative not only aims to enhance the dignity of handling deceased individuals but also reflects the county's commitment to improving community services. The cooler will provide a necessary resource for local funeral homes and families, ensuring that cultural and personal wishes are respected during difficult times.

As the project progresses, Custer County residents can look forward to more reliable and respectful funeral services, marking a significant step forward in community care.