New Lenox Township Explores Land Purchase for Cemetery Expansion

New Lenox Township Board of Trustees Meeting | September

Article Summary: New Lenox Township is considering the purchase of church-owned property adjacent to the Maplewood cemetery for a potential expansion. The board has directed Trustee Annette Vogt to consult with legal counsel after the neighboring Methodist Church indicated it was open to selling the land and requested the township propose an offer.

Cemetery Land Acquisition Key Points:

• The township is in preliminary discussions to acquire land from the Methodist Church.

• The property is located next to the township-managed Maplewood cemetery.

• The church has asked the township to propose a purchase price.

• The board recommended a legal review before any offer is formulated.

The New Lenox Township Board of Trustees on Thursday, September 11, 2025, discussed the potential acquisition of land adjacent to the Maplewood cemetery.

Trustee Annette Vogt reported that she had spoken with Dave McCune, the trustee chairperson for the local Methodist Church, about the possible sale of a church-owned property. According to Vogt, the church is willing to sell the parcel and would like the township to propose a number it would be willing to pay for the property.

The discussion among the board centered on the value of local properties and the process for making such a purchase. The board ultimately recommended that Vogt consult with legal counsel Mike Hickey and Supervisor Cass Wennlund, who was absent, to understand the legalities and proper procedure before moving forward.

Vogt also raised the issue of cemetery maintenance, noting that some headstones are in need of cleanup. The board discussed the township’s responsibilities and requirements for performing such work. Earlier in the meeting, it was reported that new lights for the flagpoles at both the Maplewood and Marshall cemeteries, which Vogt had previously requested, have been successfully installed.