New Life For 3 Abandoned Cemeteries In Clarkstown

NANUET, NY — Sen. Bill Weber, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, and Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann visited Nanuet Cemetery Thursday to discuss forthcoming state funding for the restoration and repair of three abandoned cemeteries in Clarkstown.

The cemeteries that are eligible include the Nyack Rural Cemetery and Mount Moor Cemetery, both located in West Nyack, and the Nanuet Cemetery in Nanuet, where toppled headstones dotted the delapidated graveyard on the day of the officials' visit.

In New York State, abandoned cemeteries become a town's responsibility.

"This funding from the state will ensure that Clarkstown is able to restore and maintain abandoned cemeteries without negatively impacting taxpayers," Zebrowski said.

Weber and Zebrowski introduced the legislation (S.6878/A.7121) this year to allow town officials access to support made available under state finance law. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the bill in October.

"Having the ability to apply for state funding will ensure the proper respect and care is able to be given to those interred at these cemeteries," Hoehmann said.

"My office will continue working with Assemblyman Zebrowski and Supervisor George Hoehmann's offices to ensure that the African American Mount Moor, Nyack Rural, and Nanuet Cemeteries are restored expeditiously," Weber said.