New Lenox Township Explores Options to Expand Maplewood Cemetery

New Lenox Township Meeting | October 2025

Article Summary: New Lenox Township is considering ways to increase burial capacity at Maplewood Cemetery, including a potential land acquisition from the adjacent Methodist Church. Supervisor Cass Wennlund has also proposed an alternative to first maximize existing township property by moving a shed, which could create space for approximately 100 new grave sites.

Cemetery Expansion Discussion Key Points:

• The township is in discussions with the Methodist Church about potentially purchasing adjacent church-owned property for cemetery expansion.

• An alternative proposal would involve moving a shed on current township land to add up to 100 grave sites.

• Trustees discussed the potential costs associated with acquiring new land, including clearing, fencing, and addressing a drop-off on the property.

• The board will continue exploring its options before making a final decision.

NEW LENOX, IL – The New Lenox Township Board on Thursday, October 9, 2025, discussed future needs at Maplewood Cemetery, including the possibility of acquiring adjacent land to create additional grave sites.

Trustee Annette Vogt reported on a discussion she had with Dave McCune, the trustee chairperson for the Methodist Church, regarding the possible sale of church-owned property located next to the cemetery. McCune provided a satellite view of the property for the township’s consideration.

During the discussion, Supervisor Cass Wennlund suggested an alternative approach to first maximize the township’s current land. Wennlund proposed moving a shed on property the township already owns, a move he estimated could create space for up to 100 additional graves before any new land purchase would be necessary.

Trustees also discussed the potential costs if the adjacent property were acquired, which would include clearing the land, fencing, installing retaining walls, and addressing a significant drop-off. The board decided to inform the Methodist Church that it is exploring all opportunities to increase grave sites and requires more time to finalize its options.