Election 2026: Vote yes to support Klickitat Co. Cemetery District 1

The White Salmon Cemetery was established in 1908 and became a county entity in 1962. Since that time — more than 60 years ago — the levy rate has remained extremely low at just $0.01 per $1,000 of assessed property value, generating only about $11,000 per year. While costs have risen dramatically over the decades, the funding has not.

Today, the cemetery faces increasing expenses for basic operations: ground maintenance, equipment upkeep and record management have all become significantly more costly. At the same time, revenue from the sale of grave sites, burial labor, and cremation placement has declined. To stay afloat, the cemetery has relied heavily on donations from local businesses and generous community members — an unsustainable solution for a public service we all depend on.

A cemetery is more than a piece of land. Our cemetery is a place where we honor our Klickitat County veterans. Our Veterans Walk of Honor Memorial is a much appreciated place of remembrance, reflection and respect. Klickitat County Cemetery is a space where families and friends can honor loved ones and connect with our shared history. Maintaining a cemetery that is safe, accessible, and welcoming is a responsibility we owe to past, present, and future generations.

The proposed levy increase would raise the rate to $0.035 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For a home assessed at $500,000, this equals approximately $17.50 per year, or $1.46 per month — a small investment that will make a meaningful difference.

Your YES vote will help ensure that the White Salmon Cemetery can continue to operate, maintain its grounds, and honor those who came before us with dignity and care. Please join us in supporting this vital community resource Vote YES for the Klickitat County Cemetery District 1 levy increase.