HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Burial prices at Riverside Cemetery in Hopkinsville may change for the first time in nearly 20 years. An ordinance has been added to the upcoming Hopkinsville City Council agenda to approve an incremental increase.
A memorandum from Mike Perry with Hopkinsville Public Works disclosed that this change is necessary due to inflation over the past five years. He disclosed that the rates have not been adjusted since 2007. The memo said, “It is appropriate to review and realign our fees to better reflect current market conditions and ensure revenues more accurately offset operating expenses.”
During the April 23 Hopkinsville Committee of the Whole meeting, Perry suggested a 5% increase effective July 1, and then an additional 5% increase in July 2028. He also recommended a $275 fee for larger vaults and cremation burials, and a late charge for funeral processions entering the cemetery after 3 p.m. to account for staffing and overtime.
Perry previously told the committee of the whole that their expenses are currently exceeding their revenue. Over the past five years they have had an average revenue of $203,000, with expenses of $219,000.
The current general grave price is $690 each, which would rise to $725, and then to $750 in 2028. This price change will also impact Cave Spring Cemetery. The city council will have a first reading of this ordinance during the May 5 meeting.
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