Imperial County files complaint against Memory Gardens Cemetery
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors filed an official complaint with the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau to address the deteriorating condition of Memory Gardens Cemetery on Wednesday, according to Imperial County.
District 3 Supervisor Michael Kelley said, “I am pleased to see the County is taking action on this issue and formally bringing it to the State’s attention at the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau by requesting an investigation. I look forward to a time when the Memory Gardens Cemetery is in a condition that is aesthetically appealing for family members of the deceased and highly regarded.”
County officials say the owner of the cemetery is failing to meet standards established by California Code of Regulations and that the current state of the cemetery and right-of-ways are severely neglected visible to passersby and families who visit.
The County of Imperial said trash debris, sinking graves, and mounds of excess dirt from burials are piled at the cemetery and that the lack of attention and upkeep of the grounds have caused substantial damage, erosion, and decay from extreme weather.
Local community members have volunteered their time, paying out of their pocket to improve the cemetery. However, the volunteer work is not sufficient to carry out the work of daily maintenance on the grounds.
