Last night's City Council meeting was a huge step forward in our fight to save the Barstow Cemetery. With the support of Council Member John Tex Williams, District 4, and the City Council, the council recommended moving toward a resolution in support of the cemetery and giving direction to continue exploring how the City can take over the cemetery, which is currently a special district.

This is not uncharted territory for the City of Barstow. The City has already stepped in with the Fire District, so there is a clear precedent for this kind of action. The City Manager, Rochelle Clayton (who has experience with a city-supported cemetery), and the council members expressed genuine concern and a willingness to act. They understand that while Members of Congress, Assembly Members, and Senators have not made the cemetery a priority, our local representatives can step up and make a difference.

The presentation from District General Manager Ashley Tarpley of Barstow Mountain View Memorial Park Cemetery was powerful. She spoke with courage and clarity, representing the incredible work accomplished by only four dedicated team members, two of whom are Maintenance/Groundskeepers. Community members were moved to tears as they asked the difficult questions: What will happen if no one helps? Will we lose our cemetery?

We have already seen what happens when a cemetery in Barstow goes ignored; due to severe budgetary restraints, the cemetery's graves and grounds have been sparsely maintained, serving as a reminder of what neglect can do. We cannot let this continue.

We are grateful for the turnout from our community, the strength of the cemetery staff, and the openness of our City Council and City Staff to take a deep dive into this issue. This is not the end; it is just the beginning of a real movement to make sure Barstow Cemetery is cared for, honored, and protected for generations to come.

Thank you to everyone who continues to sign and share this petition. Your voices matter, and they are being heard. Together, we are making sure Barstow Cemetery is never ignored again, and dignity is restored.