Vote Greg Thames

Hey everyone! 👋 As one of your Cemetery District Commissioners for district 7 (which covers Ferndale/Birch Bay Area). We need your input. As we look towards making our community services more inclusive and environmentally friendly, I want to hear your thoughts on introducing green burials at the Enterprise Cemetery.

Green burials are an eco-friendly alternative that allow for a natural return to the earth without the use of chemicals or non-biodegradable materials. It’s a beautiful way to honor a loved one while also preserving our environment for future generations.

I’m eager to gather feedback from all of you on this. Would you be interested in having green burials as an option in our local cemetery? Please share your thoughts, concerns, or any questions you might have in the comments below. Your input is invaluable in helping us make informed decisions that reflect our community’s values and needs.

Thank you for your time and engagement! 🌱

🌿🕊️ **Cemetery District Commissioner Meeting (Enterprise cemetery: Ferndale/Birch Bay) Recap! 🕊️🌿**

Dear Cemetery District Community,

I'm excited to share the latest developments from our recent cemetery board meeting, where we delved into crucial matters shaping the future of our sacred grounds. Here's a detailed overview:

🔐 **Securing Our Records**: We unanimously approved the acquisition of a new safe, investing $2400 with a $400 rebate, to bolster the security of our records and files.

🌺 **Honoring Our Heroes**: Plans for our Memorial Day program on May 27th are well underway. We're orchestrating a heartfelt ceremony complete with speakers, chaplains, a color guard, and a taps player to commemorate our fallen heroes.

⛪ **Expanding Our Horizons**: A spirited discussion took place regarding the potential expansion of our cemetery and the introduction of green/natural burials. While some expressed logistical concerns, others embraced this eco-conscious approach as the way forward.

🔥 **Keeping Warm**: We addressed the need for repairs to our office heater pilot light, ensuring a comfortable environment for visitors and staff.

💻 **Digital Presence Enhancement**: Recognizing the importance of a modern online presence, we explored avenues to update our cemetery's website for better accessibility and functionality.

🚨 **Emergency Preparedness**: We discussed the importance of having comprehensive emergency procedures in place and will continue to refine these plans in the future.

💡 **Looking Ahead**: Amidst our serious deliberations, we shared some light-hearted banter about potential future endeavors, including creative fundraising ideas involving cookies!

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all attendees, including Barbara Johnson, Kenny Lunde, David Fast, Helen, and others, for their unwavering commitment to our cemetery's mission.

Excitingly, at the conclusion of the meeting, we announced plans for a green burial field trip at our next gathering. This on-site exploration will provide invaluable insights as we consider the possibility of incorporating green burial practices into our cemetery.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to navigate these important matters. Your engagement and support are crucial as we strive to uphold the dignity and sanctity of our cemetery.

Warm regards,
Greg Thames
Cemetery Board Member

📜 Tuesday was a significant day for me as I took the oath of office at our county courthouse. 🏛️ While it may not have been a big, flashy event, the importance of those words and the responsibility they carry are immense.

Being entrusted with this role is an honor I don't take lightly. 🤝 Serving our community and upholding the values we hold dear is a privilege that fills me with gratitude.

Thank you for your support, and I'm excited to begin this journey of service. 🌟 Together, we can make a positive impact and uphold the trust placed in me. 💪

🌿🪦 Cemetery District 7 Updates 🪦🌿

Hello everyone! 👋 i hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some important updates from our recent Cemetery Commission meeting. 📢 Here are the main topics we discussed:

1. 💰 New Price Proposals for 2024 💰

We're considering some adjustments in our pricing structure for 2024 to ensure fairness and accessibility for our community. For out-of-county citizens burials, the proposed price will be $6000, which is still a great value compared to neighboring areas like King, and Pierce County. We have had some interest from people from those areas wanting to over use the limited space available. Local Whatcom County residents will benefit from prices ranging from $1000 to $2000. Our aim is to prioritize our local residents, and we'll vote on the final pricing details in our next meeting after collecting more information, Commissioner Helen is heading up this research for us .

2. 🏗️ New Shop Building Progress 🏗️

We received an exciting update on the long-anticipated new shop building. After experiencing delays for over three years, we're delighted to report that the conditional use permit and mitigation for the new shop building are on track for approval by the end of January or early February. This means we'll soon be able to initiate the bidding process and commence construction. Your patience is greatly appreciated!

3. 🌿 Exploring Green/Natural Burials 🌿

Cemetery Sexton, Dave Fast shared that he's been in touch with a company called Northwest Ecological Services to explore the possibility of establishing a green/natural burial area. We're in the early stages of research, and we'll keep you updated as we gather more information on the requirements.

4. 🚿 Maintenance Updates 🚿

We're dedicated to maintaining the beauty and functionality of our cemetery. We've successfully completed irrigation work on the last section, and winterization is scheduled for early January to ensure everything remains in top shape.

5. 👥 Welcoming a New Commissioner 👥

In the last meeting, Kenny Sunde was appointed to replace a former commissioner, Mario Bonilla. I am thrilled to have Kenny remain on our team. This was my first meeting as your representative. I think we have a great team.

6. 📦 Miscellaneous Discussions 📦

We addressed various other topics, including enhanced record storage options (Commissioner Kenny suggested purchasing a large safe), potential updates to our basic informational website (Barbara Johnson and I are exploring this).

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our Cemetery District 7 community. We'll keep you updated on all these developments, and please feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions. 💕🌳 "

Look what just came up in the mail! So excited (and scared) to serve!

Hello everyone,
Curious about the next steps? With the election now certified, my focus shifts to preparing for the responsibilities ahead in District 7. Prior to the swearing-in on January 8th, my priority is immersing myself in all matters specific to our district. As soon as the details solidify, I'll promptly share the where and when. Your ongoing support and encouragement mean the world.
I am looking forward to the journey ahead!

🗳️ **Gratitude and Unity: Thank You for Your Votes!** 🗳️

Dear Community,

Today, I express my profound gratitude for your support and your votes, which have chosen me as your Cemetery District Commissioner. I extend a heartfelt thank you to every one of you.

This journey has been a testament to the strength of our Community, and it's crucial to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of my opponent, Kenny Sund. Kenny, you are a good man, and your commitment to our Community is evident. We may have been competitors in this race, but moving forward, we need everyone's help, ideas, and collaboration to serve our Community to the best of our ability.

To all voters, whether you voted for me or Mr. Sund, I appreciate your engagement in the democratic process. Your involvement makes our community strong, diverse, and vibrant.

As we move into this new chapter together, I want to reiterate what I've said throughout this campaign: open and honest communication will be at the forefront of my service. I don't have all the answers, but I am committed to learning, listening, and representing the very best of our community.

Together, let's continue this journey with transparency, collaboration, and the spirit of service over self, guiding our path. Our collective efforts have brought us to this point, and I am excited about the work that lies ahead.

Once again, thank you for your trust, your support, and your votes. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you all and work hand in hand with each member of our community.

With deep appreciation,
Greg Thames

🗳️ As the November 7th election draws near, I'm reminded of the profound importance of civic engagement. Voting is not just a right; it's a powerful way to embody the principle of service over self.

In our community, we've witnessed countless individuals who selflessly dedicate their time, energy, and resources to make a difference. They exemplify the very essence of what it means to serve others.

When you cast your vote on November 7th, you are participating in a collective act of service, contributing to the betterment of our community. You are ensuring that your voice is heard, and that the values you hold dear are represented in our local government.

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have supported my campaign. Your belief in the power of service and your vote of confidence are the driving forces behind my commitment to this position.

Your support inspires me to work tirelessly for our community, to preserve our history, to secure our future, and to honor our loved ones with dignity. I promise to carry the torch of service over self as your Cemetery District Commissioner.

On November 7th, let's come together and make our voices heard. Let's remember that service to our community is a fundamental duty we owe to ourselves and future generations. I urge you to mark your calendars and join me in this collective act of service - cast your vote.

Thank you for your unwavering support, and I am deeply grateful for your vote on November 7th. Together, we can continue to make a difference in our community, and together, we will keep the spirit of service alive.

With heartfelt thanks and warm regards,

Greg Thames

Hello Friends!

As I'm running for the position of Cemetery District Commissioner, I have been meeting with voters in this district, and I'd like to shed light on the crucial work of Cemetery District Commissioners. Behind the serene landscapes, the peaceful atmosphere, and the respectful ambiance of our public cemeteries, there exists a dedicated team of individuals working tirelessly.

**We, as Cemetery District Commissioners**, shoulder the responsibility of overseeing these hallowed grounds. Our duties encompass managing maintenance, repairs, and landscaping. We ensure that these spaces remain dignified and well-maintained resting places and significant historical resources.

But our responsibilities go far beyond that. We delicately balance the cemetery budget, considering the economic aspects while always respecting the sanctity of these places. We establish policies for burials, pricing, visitor guidelines, and more, carefully weighing each decision from human, community, and legal perspectives.

We are visionaries, anticipating the need for expansion and acquiring land when necessary. We engage with the community, actively seeking input and tirelessly promoting the importance of our cemeteries. We maintain meticulous records of burial plots and ensure unwavering compliance with relevant laws.

We are advocates for technological advancements, bringing about digital transformations in cemetery operations. Sustainability is at the heart of our mission, and we strive to implement eco-friendly practices whenever possible. Collaborating with local governments and organizations is part of our commitment to improving public cemeteries.

Our roles may vary across districts, but our objective remains to ensure that our cemeteries continue to serve our communities now and for generations to come.

As you visit a public cemetery next time, please take a moment to appreciate the work of Cemetery District Commissioners. We are here to help you remember and respect your loved ones in the most dignified way possible.

I appreciate your support and ask for your vote as I seek to serve our community in this critical role.

Stepping into the shadows to light a beacon.

Many times, we're drawn towards the limelight, the roles that everyone knows, the posts that carry a familiar ring. Yet, I find myself running for a post most haven't even heard of.

This isn't a tale of mainstream pursuit. This is about stepping off the beaten path and into the unknown. It's about the power of uncharted territories and the influence they hold.

This post I'm running for may not be in the headlines. It may not be in the dinner-table conversations. But within its obscurity lies its strength. It's the chance to make a difference, to influence change from the ground up, and to shape narratives that have been overlooked for far too long.

This is not about fame or recognition. This is about impact. About leveraging the unseen to create a wave of transformation.

Why is this decision the most impactful of my life? Because it embodies the essence of leadership. It's not about being in the spotlight, it's about illuminating the path for others.

So, here's to the unsung heroes and the silent warriors. To the posts that don't get the applause but make the difference.

Next time you find yourself at a crossroads, consider the path less taken. The impact you make might just surprise you.

Engage below if you've ever found power in the quiet corners of your journey. Let's celebrate the power of unseen impact together.

Unlocking the hidden history of Washington's cemetery district commissioners.

In 1947, a unique chapter in Washington's history was penned. The Revised Code of Washington 68.16 was passed, marking the birth of cemetery districts. The path was paved for counties to establish these districts, manned by a three-member board of cemetery district commissioners elected for 6-year terms.

Yet, the narrative was riddled with ambiguity. The authority and powers of these governing boards remained a mystery, a puzzle waiting to be solved.

Enter 1985, the missing piece arrived in the form of House Bill 635. Clear definitions of duties and authority were bestowed upon the cemetery district boards. The mantle of power included the ability to operate, improve, and maintain cemeteries; the right to purchase land; accept donations; appoint officials; and set rates for cemetery plots and services. A reaffirmation echoed across the state - the commissioners would continue to be elected to 6-year terms.

Fast forward to today, over 100 active cemetery districts thrives across Washington, each governed by an elected board of cemetery district commissioners. These self-sufficient taxing authorities are the unsung heroes, providing the invaluable service of operating and maintaining cemeteries.

The journey of cemetery district commissioners, from their inception in the 1940s to their defined role in 1985, is a testament to the importance of these positions in preserving and managing cemeteries across the state.

I hope you've enjoyed this brief, yet significant, stroll through the history of cemetery district commissioners in Washington. Hit the 'Like' button if you found this information intriguing and share your thoughts in the comments below!