Portland — The City Council accepted a gift of cemetery improvements from the Stewards of the Western Cemetery, a local 501(c)(3) that has led preservation work on the 12-acre, historically significant site.

John Funk, president of the Stewards, told the council the group raised roughly $250,000 for a cluster of projects that include a replacement tool shed, a perimeter fence, a path and stair railings. Funk said the design was reviewed and approved by historic-preservation authorities and coordinated with city cemetery staff. “This is a very historic part of Portland,” Funk said, noting the cemetery opened in 1830 and includes veterans from six wars.

George Roe and other public commenters asked for clarity about the city’s long-term maintenance obligations for donated infrastructure and who would hold keys or be responsible for damage or theft of tools stored in the shed. Funk and staff said the Stewards have coordinated with the cemetery division and public-works staff on upkeep and that the project continues city-staff collaboration.

Councilors voiced broad support for the donation and the restoration work; the council then voted to approve the gift. One councilor emphasized the need for clear agreements about future maintenance; staff and Stewards representatives said they are prepared to answer follow-up questions and provide documentation about coordination with the city.

What’s next: The Stewards offered to host tours and provide additional documentation to city staff; councilors requested assurances and clarified that future maintenance arrangements and any formal memorandum of understanding can be reviewed with the relevant departments.

Quote: “We have raised almost $250,000 to pay for the shed, the fence, the path and railings,” John Funk said. “This is a broad community effort.”