Springdale Cemetery Observer Report

Linda Daley chaired the meeting, welcoming new Board Member, Pam Johnson.

• ​Prairie Gardens ads in area publications and billboards have created a lot of interest.  There many people who stop by or call asking for more information.  Many of the visitors are returning.  Mr. Matusak said that he felt that the learning curve for people regarding a scattering garden opportunity for their loved ones is one of the reasons it may take families longer to make a final decision.   There were 3 scatterings and 1 niche placement this month.
• There is a hold on the Shaft Project pending an update.  There will be a presentation by Mr. Bruce Brown at the August scheduled meetings of both the Springdale Cemetery Foundation and Authority Board to clarify progress and details requested by these Boards.  The presentation will consist of information regarding funds raised, funds spent, cost of project, and projected completion date. 

• Mike Rucker attended to give his quarterly update regarding the Prairie Gardens – volunteer activity and fund incentives.
• A representative for the Illinois Valley Striders attended to offer assistance and request use of the cemetery.  The offer of assistance was in appreciation for the use of the cemetery for Runs.  The Striders would like to volunteer in the Spring for cleanup which will be coordinated with maintenance staff at Springdale.  Secondly, the request for use of the cemetery was for a formal Halloween Run on Halloween evening starting at 6 pm.  
• The Audit Report Presentation was postponed because the Foundation Audit is not completed as of this date.  Postponement was approved.
• CloudPoint Mark Matusak recapped what CloudPoint services consist of for those unfamiliar with the project.  CloudPoint creates a system of mapping the cemetery.  The mapping creates a more efficient service passed on to customers.  The time estimate was 1 year but to complete the project most efficiently there will be an additional 3 to 6 months at no additional cost.  The ongoing price for maintenance with CloudPoint is a fraction of the cost paid to the previous service provider and the information provided to customers is much improved.
• Negotiations regarding the North Central Extension/Savanna Conservation Easement seem to be coming to a close.  Two agreements are necessary for closure.  Needed is a Conservation Agreement separate from a Management Agreement.  It was suggested that the Management Agreement needed updated.  August is the projected timeline for completion of negotiations.
•  Ground Maintenance Report – Mr. Matusak took this opportunity to give a “pat on the back” to all of the grounds staff. 


• The Springdale Historic Preservation Foundation funds were used to restore 11 statues in the Cemetery and they are now focusing on the Soldier’s Monument and two other statues needing repair.    
• State of Illinois Capital Grant:  The Chair asked the Board to review the minutes from last month regarding the distribution of funds.  This may be brought to the table for discussion at the August meeting.
• Upcoming Events:
  • July 24 – South Side Mission Tour
  • Sept 8 – IVC  Half Marathon Race
  • Weekends of Oct 5 & 12 – Prairie Folklore Player Performances
  • Oct 11 – Tentative Dedication Ceremony for the “SHAFT”
  • Oct 31 – IVS 5K Run