Barnesville residents oppose proposed relocation of graves in Wadsworth-Clayton Cemetery

Several Barnesville residents used public comment time to voice opposition to a proposed relocation of graves in the Wadsworth-Clayton Cemetery, located in the city’s Industrial Park on Old Milner Road.

During the July 3 meeting Mayor Peter L. Banks recognized Jeffrey Stevens, who expressed opposition to the relocation plan. Melissa Cline then told the council she opposed the proposal. Joseph Hudson asked that, if enslaved people were among those buried there, the city ensure they would be honored and cared for. The minutes record the comments but do not show a formal vote or directive in response.

Council did not adopt a resolution or motion on the cemetery during the meeting minutes provided; councilmembers asked for the issue to be noted and for staff to continue communication with concerned residents. The transcript notes the matter was raised during the public comment portion of the July meeting and again when election notices and other business were addressed.

The council’s minutes do not specify the city’s formal relocation plan details, the legal authority for moving graves, or a timeline. Residents at the meeting urged the council to preserve and respect the graves; councilmembers did not record a formal decision in the transcript provided.