By Taylor J. Hale
Gazette Reporter

STEVENS POINT — The price of grave plots at Forest Cemetery in Stevens Point may be rising to match the price points of surrounding areas.

Surveys show that the Stevens Point Catholic Cemetery Association, which operates many of the cemeteries in the area, and other surrounding graveyards charge around $700 per plot, the current fee at Forest Cemetery is $500. The new proposed price is $700, to harmonize with the encompassing region’s figures.

“The last time we looked at the prices at Forest Cemetery was five years ago. So we thought we’d take a look and see what the going rate for cemetery plots is,” said Corey Ladick, Comptroller and Treasurer. “We are going to be mowing that cemetery and taking care of it in perpetuity. It really would be nice to build up a good perpetual care fund to provide for the maintenance of the cemetery.”

The raised prices will match the competing costs of the area, and infant spaces will remain at $25. This adjustment will greatly help the graveyard with its upkeep and preservation. Allowing for more revenue and resources to flow into it.

“We are a little on the low side. That’s why we recommend increasing the price,” Ladick said. “Revitalizing and preserving graveyards like this is a vital step in caring for our community.”

Having the funds to hire extra staff and maintain the grounds is essential. The suggested changes will drastically help the current state of the cemetery. Forest Cemetery is the second largest cemetery in Portage County. It has been owned and maintained by the city since the 1990s, located on the corner of Patch Street and Cleveland Avenue.

It will have a final vote later at this month’s common council.