Rosehill-Elmwood Cemetery and Mausoleum has a new manager in Chris Sheridan, and he’s determined to correct the problems that arose during prior leadership — including the care of the 77-acre cemetery grounds. Sheridan is starting with the contract for the electric lawnmowers the company previously used.
At the end of 2021, the cemetery was under scrutiny from families about the upkeep around the grounds and the headstones of their lost loved ones. Several tombstones were be chipped away due to the robotic mowers (called Goats) hitting them, while there was overgrowth around some in-ground stones.
Sheridan joined the team just under a month ago and in that short span already said he noticed the inefficient performance by the Goats. He is in the process of buying out of the contract that was previously signed.
“It was a good concept to go green, but what the Goats didn’t know is how to stop when it comes to a marker. They were tearing them up and with so many things to run into and turn around, they just weren’t doing an efficient job,” Sheridan said.
Sheridan said there were also some temporary workers that were working on the grounds, and those positions have been cut. The cemetery has instead entered into a contract with DeWayne’s Lawncare, which will be working on both sides of the property. That crew has already been working over the last week and a half, with major improvements according to Sheridan.
Sheridan said he’s already gotten positive feedback since making the changes. He said a family buried their loved one, and following a week of aftercare the family returned.
“[They] came in this morning, and she said ‘I want to just compliment you on how good the grounds look.’ So that was a sign of improvement to me,” he said.
Sheridan said he wants to ensure the best experience for all the families. He plans to not let challenges become excuses and try to be as communicative as he can with the families.
Sheridan said he’s also focused on community outreach for the cemetery. The annual Voices of Elmwood is coming up next month and a new car show along with other events are ahead on the calendar.
“Having the community support on our side is huge,” he said. “I’m not even gonna use the word that I’m trying. If I tell you I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it. I’m not going to give you excuses. We’re gonna put our boots on the ground to get the job done.”
