Swanton, VT Cemetery Commission

06/17/2026

It has been brought to the Cemetery Commissions attention individual(s) has been driving between rows of graves believing them to be roads. This is not the case. Driving here is not only not allowed but also disrespectful to those buried & risk of damage to monuments or vehicles.
The paved roads are for vehicles.
ATV use is also prohibited in the cemeteries. Please see town ordnance.
Thank You

06/08/2026

A Message to the Public from the Cemetery Commission,

The Cemetery Commission would like to address recent concerns and comments regarding lawn care and maintenance at Riverside Cemetery.

First and foremost, the Commission appreciates the community's interest in preserving and respecting this important sacred space. Riverside Cemetery, along with all of our cemeteries, serves as a place of remembrance for many families, and maintaining their appearance and dignity remains a priority for the Commission.

Over the past several weeks, the Commission has collaboratively reviewed cemetery operations, maintenance expectations, current state statutes, and the current lawn care contract. Through this process, we have recognized the need for clearer communication with the caretaker of the grounds, greater transparency with the public, well-defined maintenance expectations, and a structured plan moving forward to ensure more consistent care throughout the cemetery grounds under the current contract and future contracts to come.

As a result, the Commission is taking the following steps:

• Reviewing and updating maintenance standards and expectations for cemetery grounds and making modifications where necessary.

• Developing a seasonal maintenance plan that outlines routine mowing, trimming, and general upkeep schedules. This plan will be shared with the Commission, and weekly updates and plans of action will be provided by the maintenance team to the commissioners.

• Improving communication between contractors and the Commission to address concerns promptly and efficiently.

• Conducting more frequent inspections of cemetery grounds to ensure maintenance goals are being met and maintained.

The Commission remains committed to working collaboratively with contractors and community members to ensure all cemeteries receive the care and attention they deserve. We recognize that maintaining a cemetery is an ongoing process that requires planning, communication, and accountability from all parties involved.

We also respectfully remind visitors to remain on designated roadways when driving through the cemetery. Driving on grassy areas or non-roadways can cause damage to the grounds and create additional maintenance challenges.

For any questions, concerns, or feedback regarding Riverside Cemetery or any of the town's cemeteries, we encourage members of the public to reach out directly to the Cemetery Commissioners using the contact information provided below. The Commission's page is also available as a direct way to communicate with commissioners regarding cemetery-related questions, concerns, or suggestions.

We appreciate the patience, understanding, and support of our community as we work toward implementing these improvements. The Commission also recognizes its responsibility to provide clear direction and oversight moving forward. Our goal is to establish a clear path forward that will help ensure Riverside Cemetery remains a well-maintained, respectful, and beautiful place for generations to come.

Sincerely,

The Cemetery Commission

Brian Savage - [email protected]
Commissioner / Town Administratior

Macy Dupont - [email protected]
Commissioner

John Kaczkowski - [email protected]
Commissioner

Nick Brosseau - [email protected]
Commissioner

06/04/2026

06/02/2026

Riverside Cemetery is still being actively maintained as of 4:50 PM today and was also tended to yesterday. We appreciate the continued efforts being made to improve the appearance and upkeep of the cemetery.

The Cemetery Commission would also like to remind all visitors to remain on the designated roadways and avoid driving on the grass or between grave sites. This reminder comes after a report from a member of the public that several vehicles were observed driving through grassy areas during one of the recent meet-and-greet events.

This is important for several reasons:
• Headstones and memorial markers can be accidentally damaged.
• Lawns and grounds can be harmed, creating additional maintenance concerns.
• Uneven terrain, hidden markers, or ground conditions could pose a safety risk to visitors and their vehicles.

The Commission is also working collaboratively to develop a clear maintenance plan and expectations moving forward to help ensure that all cemeteries remain in the pristine condition they are in today. Our goal is to provide consistent care, accountability, and transparency while preserving these important community spaces.

We appreciate everyone's cooperation in helping preserve and protect Riverside Cemetery for all families and visitors.

06/01/2026

A second informal meet and greet will be at Riverside tomorrow again at approximately 4:30 by the flagpole. John and Macy will be present to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

05/31/2026

To be more transparent and available in person Commissioner John Kaczkowski will at Riverside this afternoon & tomorrow around 4:30pm by the flagpole. Additional dates and times will be posted later. You can also email him at [email protected].

05/31/2026

5/30/26
Public Notice from the Cemetery Commission:

The Cemetery Commission is aware of the current conditions within all cemetery properties under its care, including Riverside Cemetery. The Commission has recently met to review these matters and has established a plan to address ongoing maintenance and operational concerns moving forward.

The Commission also wishes to remind all lot owners and members of the public that the cemetery's rules and regulations apply to all purchased plots without exception. These regulations are adopted to ensure the orderly operation, maintenance, preservation, and appearance of the cemetery and are intended to provide a respectful environment for all visitors.

Please refer to the posted signs at the entrance of each cemetery for current rules and regulations. These rules may be updated periodically as the Commission continues to enhance its efforts to provide respectful and appropriate care for those laid to rest in our cemeteries.

The Cemetery Commission would also like to remind the public of several practices that help maintain the appearance and condition of our cemeteries throughout the summer months:

1. Decorative items, trinkets, and other memorial objects should be properly secured to the monument or placed firmly in the ground to prevent them from being displaced by weather conditions, mowing operations, or routine maintenance activities.

2. The Commission is not responsible for lost, damaged, or displaced items that are not properly secured.

3. Flowers may be planted at grave sites; however, all plantings must be located directly in front of the monument or headstone and within the boundaries of the lot.

4. Items that interfere with routine maintenance or present a safety concern may be removed by the Commission in accordance with cemetery rules and regulations.

The cooperation of lot owners and visitors is appreciated as we work to preserve the beauty, dignity, and upkeep of our cemeteries for all who visit.

For questions regarding cemetery policies, rules, or maintenance, please contact the Cemetery Commission directly.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in maintaining our cemeteries as places of dignity, remembrance, and respect.

Respectfully,

The Cemetery Commission

[email protected]
[email protected]

05/25/2026

We must be reminded that freedom must always be Defended, Strengthened, and Cherished.

04/12/2026

The Swanton Cemetery Commission, thanks everyone who was able to attend todays dedication. We would like to especially acknowledge the Vermont and Massachusetts National Guards as well as the Canadian Army Attaché to the United States.

New historic marker honoring Cpl. Leonard A. Lord, the first Vermonter killed in World War I.

04/12/2026

Are you missing a lawn chair? There was a lawn chair left after the ceremony at Riverside Cemetery this afternoon. If it is yours please private message the Swanton Cemetery Commision page.