Rep. Manweller honored for bill to save historic cemeteries

OLYMPIA — Thirteenth District Rep. Matt Manweller has been given the “Cemetery Achievement Award” from the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP).

Manweller was honored for his work during the 2016 legislative session to preserve the state’s threatened historic cemeteries.

“It is an honor to be recognized, and I hope this will bring more attention to the fact we have more than 100 cemeteries poorly maintained or not being maintained at all in Washington state,” the Ellensburg Republican said.

“Our historic cemeteries are a source of community and state pride,” he added. “It is important our communities have tools available to preserve and maintain them. They may serve as a historical resource for our future generations to appreciate and learn from.”

Manweller’s House Bill 2637 created the Washington State Historic Cemetery Preservation capital grant program within DAHP, allowing local governments, cemetery property owners, and nonprofits to apply for small grants that could be used to lower maintenance and operation costs.

“The program will preserve our state’s heritage and allow historic cemeteries to continue serving their communities while honoring our veterans,” Manweller said. “The legislation was a result of hard-working constituents trying to find solutions to save deteriorating cemeteries. They also deserve recognition for their time and efforts.”

Director and State Historic Preservation Officer Allyson Brooks presented the award to Manweller during DAHP’s special awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 17, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia.