Board Weighs Township Takeover of Historic Union Cemetery

Green Garden Township Board Meeting | January 12, 2026

Article Summary: The Green Garden Township Board is considering assuming official management of the historic Union Cemetery, which is currently maintained by a non-profit volunteer group. The move would allow the township to fund repairs but raises questions regarding liability and budget.

Union Cemetery Key Points:

• Current Management: The cemetery is currently cared for by the “Friends of Union Cemetery,” a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

• Proposed Change: The township is considering taking over management, which would place it under the oversight of the Township Collector.

• Benefits: Township control would allow for public funding to repair and reset deteriorating historic headstones.

Green Garden Township officials are debating whether to bring the historic Union Cemetery under the direct care and control of the township government.

During the meeting on Monday, January 12, 2026, the board discussed the future of the cemetery, which had been abandoned before being revitalized by a volunteer group known as the Friends of Union Cemetery.

The Supervisor explained that under state statute, the Township Collector is responsible for managing cemeteries owned or managed by the township. Michael Flanigan, the newly sworn-in Collector, expressed support for the partnership with the community but noted the decision rests on financial and liability considerations.

“I do think there’s a significant value in having resources allotted to restoring the stones, which could become problematic as they get older,” Flanigan said. “I know there’s a few stones in that cemetery that have decayed, have fallen… need to be righted.”

However, not all residents are convinced the change is necessary. Resident Jim Ross spoke during public comments, praising the work of the current volunteers.

“If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” Ross said. “I don’t see the point of incurring any possible expense or liability on the village.”

The Supervisor noted that if the township assumes control, the Collector would appoint a three-member board of managers. The current non-profit board is scheduled to meet next week to discuss their preference. The Township Board expects to revisit the issue and potentially vote next month.