Selecting a final resting place is a profound decision, intertwining personal values with the assurance of perpetual dignity and care. At Woodlawn Cemetery, we understand this deeply, which is why we maintain a robust Permanent Maintenance Fund. This fund ensures that our serene landscapes and sacred grounds are meticulously preserved for generations to come.
Understanding the Permanent Maintenance Fund
A Permanent Maintenance Fund is a legally mandated trust established by the New York State Division of Cemeteries to help finance the ongoing upkeep and preservation of the cemetery.
New York regulations require that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of burial plots, crypts and niches be allocated to this fund. Specifically, at the time of a sale, not less than 10 percent of the gross proceeds must be deposited into the fund. Additionally, for each interment, entombment or inurnment, a set amount is contributed, by NYS cemetery law, to ensure continuous care.
The principal of this fund remains untouched—it cannot be spent. Instead, only the income generated from its investments is used to support the cemetery’s upkeep. This ensures that the cemetery has a sustainable, dedicated source of funding to preserve its grounds for generations to come.
The Role of the Fund in Cemetery Maintenance
The income derived from the Permanent Maintenance Fund is applied to various essential maintenance tasks, including:
- Landscaping: Regular mowing, trimming, and care of lawns, trees and shrubs to maintain the cemetery’s natural beauty.
- Infrastructure Upkeep: Repair and maintenance of buildings, pathways, roads and drainage systems to ensure attractive, safe and accessible grounds.
- Security Measures: Installing and maintaining security systems to protect the grounds and visitors.
By dedicating funds to these activities, Woodlawn Cemetery ensures that the resting places of loved ones are cared for with the utmost respect and attention, reflecting our commitment to honoring every individual interred here.
Why This Matters When Choosing a Cemetery
When selecting a cemetery, the existence and management of a Permanent Maintenance Fund are critical factors to consider. Here’s why:
- Assurance of Perpetual Care: A well-funded maintenance trust signifies a cemetery’s commitment to ongoing care, ensuring that the grounds will not fall into neglect over time.
- Financial Responsibility: Knowing that a portion of your investment is secured for future maintenance provides peace of mind that the cemetery has a sustainable plan for preservation.
- Legacy Preservation: Ensuring that the final resting place remains dignified and well-maintained honors the memory of those interred and provides a serene environment for visitors.
At Woodlawn Cemetery, our substantial Permanent Maintenance Fund reflects our dedication to these principles. We continuously invest in our grounds, as evidenced by recent developments like the expansion of the Eternal Light Mausoleum, the improvements to the Sunset Mausoleum Chapel, and the construction of our new Reflections of Life Mausoleum. These projects not only meet the growing demand for above-ground burial options but also demonstrate our unwavering commitment to providing a tranquil and well-maintained sanctuary for remembrance.
Choosing a cemetery with a robust Permanent Maintenance Fund ensures that the sanctity and beauty of the resting place are preserved indefinitely. At Woodlawn Cemetery, we take pride in this enduring commitment, offering families the assurance that their loved ones will be honored in a setting of perpetual dignity and care.
