Saugeen Shores council is reacting to some rather frankly worded letters about the continuing erosion problems at Pioneer Park Cemetery in Southampton.
Town Director of Public Works Bill Jones says they have money in the budget to hire a local consultant to see how much work will need to be done to shore up banks and prevent further erosion into the river.
A letter from Karen Ribey President of the Bruce County Historical Society, blames past Southampton councils for not acting on what has been a problem for decades.
The letter states that with the erosion on the north side of the cemetery, it’s probable that bodies and tombstones have been lost over the edge and into the Saugeen River.
Jones warns that any work that has to be done will incur a substantial cost.
He says any work would be part of a 2011 budget that will need the approval of council.
The work may begin next Spring.
Vice Deputy Mayor Doug Gowanlock says he wants the people to know that this council is not ignoring the issue.
The Pioneer Cemetery was used from 1860 to 1900 in Southampton.
