The Van Buren County Commission adopted a resolution establishing policy and procedures for the cremation of unidentified or unclaimed human remains.

County counsel presented the resolution, which directs the county mayor to solicit annual bids for cremation services and authorizes the county to recover expenses for recovery, preservation, transportation and cremation. If family members subsequently come forward, the resolution requires them to reimburse the county for costs incurred before or after cremation.

The county attorney said the language aims to set clear administrative steps where past practice left uncertainty. Commissioner motion to approve the resolution was seconded and passed by roll call (recorded as yes votes from commissioners present). The county attorney said the resolution can be amended later if commissioners believe the language needs refinement.

Next steps: the county will publish specifications and solicit bids before the next fiscal-year cycle, and staff will return to the commission with recommended vendors and contract terms.