Why I'm Running: A Fresh Perspective for Our Cemetery

For many of us here in Yelm, the cemetery is more than a place we visit - it's where our roots are. It's where we say goodbye, where we reflect, and where we find peace. I've walked those grounds, read the same names on the memorials that also name our local streets and parks, and felt the same deep sense of responsibility that so many of you feel. We all carry a shared responsibility to protect the memory of those who came before us and to ensure their resting place is treated with dignity and care.

The Yelm Cemetery is not just a patch of land; it's a resting place for generations of families. It is a piece of our shared history and a symbol of how we care for one another. The decisions made about this sacred space should honor that history and reflect the values of the people who visit, remember, and maintain these grounds with love.

Right now, every seat on the Cemetery Commission is held by a realtor. Both of my opponents, including the Interim Position 2 Commissioner, are also realtors. Realtors bring valuable experience, but when every single decision-maker comes from the same professional background, it narrows perspective. Our cemetery isn't a real estate asset; it's a place of peace and remembrance. Families deserve leaders who see it that way, not as land to be managed, but as a legacy to be protected.

How the Current Interim Position was Filled

Transparency matters deeply to me, and unfortunately, that's not what we've seen recently. The current Interim Position 2 Commissioner was appointed without any public notice or open application process. The Yelm community was never informed that the position was open, and the appointment was made by only two sitting commissioners. There was no fair election, no public involvement, and no opportunity for other qualified community members to express interest or offer their perspective. As of late, my opponent has chosen to drop the Interim designation from his title. He solely refers to himself as Cemetery Commissioner Position 2, which is a false representation.

This kind of behind-closed-doors decision-making doesn't reflect the open, community-focused leadership that our cemetery deserves. The people of Yelm should always be part of these decisions, especially when it comes to something as meaningful as the stewardship of our cemetery.

The August 1st Rule Change: Banning Decorations

Another recent decision has also raised concern amongst our small community. The August 1st implementation of a new rule banning decorations at the cemetery has taken many family members by surprise. This rule - again, voted on by only two sitting commissioners and not a simple majority - was communicated to the public only through a sandwich board sign placed at the cemetery entrance. This sign directed families to remove treasured mementos by August 17th. Any decorations left after that date would be disposed of by cemetery staff. Any loved ones who did not see this sign at the cemetery gates in the 2-week period were not informed of the decision.

Could there have been valid reasons for the change? Possibly. Could it have been handled better? Absolutely. Community members could and should have been included in the discussion. At the very least, families deserved proper notice and a clear but respectful explanation for such a personal, emotional decision.

This is not how a community-centered board operates. Decisions about a space that holds so much meaning should always involve the people it affects most.

A Concerning Lack of Transparency

State Law (RCW) requires that cemetery boards make meeting minutes and financials public record. Yet our current board does not make that information easily accessible to the community. The only notice of monthly Cemetery Board meetings - which are open to the public - is a small sandwich board placed outside the office door. Unless someone happens to see it that day, they would have no idea that a meeting was even happening.

These meetings take place the first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Cemetery Office. Without transparent communication, how can the public participate or stay informed?

The truth is, there is currently zero transparency in how decisions are being made about our treasured cemetery. And that needs to change.

My Commitment to You

I'm running for Cemetery Commissioner because I believe our community deserves a voice in how this sacred space is managed. I believe in openness, accountability, and respect - for both the families who visit and the loved ones resting here.

If elected, I will bring transparency back to the commission. I will make sure meetings, minutes, and decisions are communicated clearly and publicly. And most importantly, I will ensure that the community's values - not just the property value - are what guide every choice made about our cemetery.

Because this isn't just about land. It's about legacy. It's about love. And it's about honoring the people who built this community - and those who keep it alive.