By Kristine Bunch
Concerned Citizens in Smithville, Missouri, are raising the alarm about a serious and ongoing violation involving the discovery—and desecration—of a historic cemetery located at 144th and Mt. Olivet Road, now within the bounds of a residential development named “Monterey Estates.”
This once undisturbed 185-acre property has been subjected to active construction. During excavation, headstones were unearthed, including one for Abigail Dunn, which still stands visibly alongside other relocated or buried markers. Citizens have captured photographic evidence of excavation equipment working directly over headstones, and five graves have been acknowledged as moved in a City email. This was done without public notice, court petition, or adherence to state cemetery relocation laws.
Missouri law is clear:
RSMo § 214.205 allows municipalities to take custody of abandoned cemeteries, and
RSMo § 214.209 requires a legal process and court approval to relocate graves, including notices to descendants.
The City of Smithville Zoning Code lists cemeteries as conditionally permitted uses, which requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and a public hearing.
None of these legal processes were followed. Instead, what has occurred is a quiet burial of truth:
The cemetery was renamed “Monterey Cemetery” without any documented approval or public process;
Construction continues around and potentially over burial sites;
And citizens’ voices have been ignored.
At tonight’s Board of Aldermen meeting, residents raised concerns publicly—and were dismissed without acknowledgment or answers. Not even a commitment to investigate. We find this not only unethical, but heartbreaking.
This is a cry for help. Citizen's are asking for intervention from the Missouri Attorney General’s Office, from state preservation authorities, and from any leader with the courage to uphold the law and respect for those buried on this land.
Citizens are calling on the City of Smithville to:
Immediately halt construction in the affected area.
Launch a full investigation into the mishandling of this site.
Follow state laws regarding cemetery relocation and protection.
Listen to its citizens, who only want what is legal, respectful, and right.
This is about honoring our past and holding ourselves to the standards of dignity we expect in return. These are not just headstones. These are people. And they deserve to be remembered—not paved over.
Comments
Post a Comment