DATE: December 31, 2014
TO: Board of Mayor and Aldermen
FROM: Eric Stuckey, City Administrator
Vernon Gerth, ACA Community and Economic Development
Lisa R. Clayton, Parks Director
Catherine Powers, Planning & Sustainability
Amanda Hall, Preservation Planner
SUBJECT:
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Assessment of Two City of Franklin Cemeteries
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Purpose
The purpose of this memorandum is to provide information to the Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) concerning the assessment report of two city cemeteries and request adoption of the concept to develop a yearly plan for the care and maintenance of the historical cemeteries.
Background
The study of two City-operated, historic cemeteries was funded by a grant from the Tennessee Historical Commission. The project was administered by the City of Franklin and the field investigations were conducted from July 29 through 31, 2014. A report was produced in the fall for City department's review which led to the full assessment of attached. The study examines the City of Franklin's two oldest burial grounds. City Cemetery began in 1811 and was used by the area's citizens until just prior to the Civil War. In 1855 what became known as Rest Haven Cemetery opened immediately across North Third Avenue from City Cemetery.
A cemetery assessment is designed to help the cemetery caregivers to think about long-range preservation in a structured way, to better understand what is significant and why, and how it should be managed in order to preserve its historical significance and ensure the cemetery's preservation for future generations. Issues of access, roads, security, landscape maintenance, and monuments are examined. Current conditions are detailed and recommendations are offered.
Financial Impact
Financial impact for the assessment of the two historic cemeteries was funded through a grant program and matching funds by the Parks Department. The total amount paid for the assessment was $8,576.39 to Chicora Foundation, Inc. from Columbia, S.C. A request for proposals (RFP) was administered through the Purchasing Department for an assessment of the cemeteries and awarded to Chicora who met the qualifications based within the RFP.
Recommendation
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During the November meeting of the Battlefield Preservation Commission, the Commission voted to recommend approval of the assessment to the Board of Mayor and Alderman. The City Departments also recommend approval of the assessment and upon approval, city staff will work with the Battlefield Preservation Commission to develop a scope of services to accomplish the work within the two historic cemeteries.