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Residents in the North Okanagan city of Enderby were quick to raise concerns over multiple disturbed headstones in a local cemetery.
On Monday, a photo post in the Enderby Happens Facebook page accused snow removal crews of disturbing multiple gravestones after a loader over top of a section in the cemetery.
Muddy tracks between two rows of flat grave markers can be seen in the photo taken, which was posted with the caption “very disrespectful in my eyes.”
The post has generated nearly 150 comments since then, prompting city officials to release an official statement on the incident.
"The City cares about maintaining the cemetery as a respectful resting place for loved ones," reads the statement from Chief Administrative Officer Tate Bengtson.
"Ground disturbance is avoided as much as possible in the cemetery. Efforts are made to minimize the impact of equipment necessary for cemetery operations.
"Unfortunately, ground disturbance may occur, particularly when soil is saturated with moisture and becomes very soft. As happened recently, the equipment required for a burial did impact the ground. Both the City and its equipment operators regret deeply when this happens.
According to the officials, any damage inadvertently caused is restored by the city.
Officials also commented that its practices are being reviewed to identify any improvements that may reduce ground disturbance.
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