by Matt Marquardt –
HAMPTON, IOWA -Work is nearing completion on a fence in Hampton that had nearly been lost.
Due to the Highway 65 reconstruction project that was completed in the city, the fence had been taken down and there was no immediate provision for putting the fence back.
(PHOTO: Steven Waechter sent the photos that accompany this story. Private money helped pay for the new cemetery fence in Hampton.)
Thanks to the efforts of a private group of citizens, over $30,000 was raised to have the fence re-finished and put back in place.
According to Hampton Mayor Shawn Dietz, the citizens recognized the need, got together and raised the money.
“Sometimes it’s nice to just be reminded of all that we have to be thankful for in a small community,” Dietz said. “Especially when it’s private money, and generous individuals who are willing to do the heavy lifting.”
“Hampton business owner and city councilman Dick Lukensmeyer has been very instrumental throughout this whole process,” Dietz explained.
Dietz said the project should be finished this week at the latest. A small dedication ceremony is planned prior to the Memorial Day festivities at the cemetery.
If I’m not mistaken, the city kicked in the first $10,000 — but the work of the volunteers and the paid employees has been fantastic. The design is better because after the road was re-done, the fence is now level all the way through. ALSO, kudos to the City of Sheffield for repairing their cemetery fence as well.
another example of volunteers making a difference… maybe there’s something to this notion!