The commission examined the differences between green and traditional burials, including the use of burial containers and the impact on space reuse. A presentation by an industry expert outlined state recommendations to limit green burials to 50 graves per acre, and further legislative developments in eco-friendly burial methods such as composting and alkaline hydrolysis. The commission tackled operational and regulatory considerations for green burials, such as the handling of shrouded bodies and the protection of burial grounds.

During the dialogue, there was a consideration of whether to integrate green burials within existing graves or to designate a separate section for such burials. The depth of graves for natural or green burial sparked debate, with some members advocating for a depth of 4 feet. The commission also addressed the use of outer burial containers, liners, and vaults, with some members suggesting liners could be suitable for natural burials. The conversation touched upon the need for Board of Health approval for cemetery use, particularly in the context of acquiring additional land for expansion.

The commission discussed the issue of cemetery space management and the town’s approach to indigent burials versus selling graves to residents. The strict rules for purchasing graves were debated alongside the number of indigent burials in the town. The commission reviewed laws and regulations governing cemeteries, the requirements for new cemetery designation, and the necessity for burial permits for all burial types. Concerns about running out of cemetery space and the need for future expansion to accommodate the town’s needs were raised, highlighting the environmental and financial implications of green burials and the challenges of managing cemetery grounds.

Another focus of the meeting was the legal disputes that had arisen, including the failure of a casket lowering device and mapping errors leading to the resale of graves, which resulted in legal action. The commission discussed cemetery operational costs and the introduction of alternative disposition methods like alkaline hydrolysis. Policies and procedures for cemetery management, the issue of abandoned family cemeteries, and maintaining funds for cemetery care were also topics of discussion.

The complexities surrounding natural or green burial, such as grave depth, marking procedures, and the financial aspects, were further elaborated. The commission considered the impact on funeral homes and families, emphasizing the need for clear communication about burial options and the use of outer burial containers.

The meeting included debates over disinterments, lot sales, and the conversion of records to an electronic format. Members discussed the rights of the license holder and the regulations for disinterments. The potential of selling single burial rights in a green burial section and the request for a flat marker to memorialize parents without burial were also topics of debate.