Bellevue Cemetery chairwoman Elizabeth Charlton addresses council on budget concerns

The Lawrence City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding local governance, cemetery operations, and veteran services. Key speakers raised concerns about the management of city resources and the welfare of vulnerable populations.

Elizabeth Charlton, chairwoman of Bellevue Cemetery, expressed her frustration over misunderstandings related to the cemetery's funding and operations. She highlighted that the cemetery generates revenue, with 60% of lot sales going into a container fund for operational costs. Charlton emphasized the necessity of overtime pay for staff due to late burials requested by families, which often occur on weekends or holidays. She also detailed security issues at the cemetery, including vandalism and drug-related incidents, which necessitate locking the gates to protect the site and its visitors.

Rich Russell, a local resident, called for transparency regarding the revolving PEG fund account, which holds $450,000. He urged the council to clarify how fees from services like Verizon and Xfinity are utilized, particularly concerning the public access channel that has been inactive.

Bill Collins addressed the council about the ongoing staffing issues within the veterans department, noting that two critical positions have remained unfilled for three years. He criticized the mayor for not taking action to support veterans and highlighted the lack of meetings by the elder service board, which is mandated to meet monthly. Collins argued that the absence of these positions and meetings denies veterans and seniors the services they need.

Sean Sweeney, a former historic commission member, voiced his discontent with ongoing renovations in the council chamber, describing the changes as detrimental to the building's historical integrity. He expressed concern over the quality of the work being done and questioned the decision-making process behind the renovations.

The meeting underscored ongoing challenges in Lawrence, particularly regarding the management of city resources and the need for improved services for veterans and the elderly. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing these concerns and ensuring that the needs of the community are met effectively.