Bluff talks cemetery and fee waiver at BCC

by David Boyle
News Director
Members of the Bluff town council are continuing their work on the the future of the Bluff Cemetery.
At a December 2 meeting, it was reported that an agreement between the town, San Juan County, the Bluff-based Southwest Heritage Foundation and the Hole in the Rock Foundation are working on an agreement related to the cemetery.
The agreement would allow access across the cemetery through an easement though the various stakeholders would continue to maintain their own sections.
As a result, the town will soon be looking for cemetery board members.
The Bluff town council also is continuing discussion about fee waivers at the Bluff Community Center. While the town waives fees for 5013c non-profits, a request to waive fees for all 501’s is being considered.
The Business Owners of Bluff puts on annual events including the International Balloon Festival in January. The 501-C6s is interested in a fee waiver for the community event.
As part of the discussion, the town shared in 2025 they have collected $9,769 in rental fees and waived $6,010.
As part of the conversation, it was also outlined a hypothetical breakdown of a $100 daily rental fee of the center, $75 for the Fire Mesa Kitchen and $50 for the pavilion. If everyone had paid that same hypothetical rate, the town woul have collected $7,525.
Members of the Bluff town council held a discussion but determined to have additional conversations and consideration after the fee schedule is amended.
Council member Britt Hornsby offered thanks for the community members who participated in the search for Joe Pachak.
Town council offered additional thanks and support for the work of emergency services staff during a difficult time for the town.
The 75-year-old Bluff resident was last seen on Tuesday, November 25 and reported missing on November 26 after missing appointments at two locations on Thanksgiving.
Law enforcement officials found his cell phone, wallet and that he left his truck at home as well.
Bluff residents and law enforcement searched for him over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Pachak is a longtime resident of Bluff, a renowned sculptor, outdoor guide and community event organizer.
Anyone with information about Pachak should call the San Juan County Sheriff’s office at 435-587-2237
Law enforcement says there is no suspicion of foul play but his disappearance remains an open investigation.
At a November 18 meeting, members of the council also celebrated the success of the first Dark Sky Festival. An estimated 125 participants came for the Friday evening presentations. The success of the festival means it will likely return next year.
Council offered thanks to Bears Ears Partnership as well as volunteer Sarah Burak, Carolyn Harmon and Diana Davidson of the Business Owners of Bluff, as well as many others for making the event a success.
At their November 18 meeting, members of the council also approved appointments to the Bluff Planning and Zoning Commission, with Anne Brown appointed to a three year mid-term and Caitlin McLennan appointed to a one year mid-term.
Members of the council also approved a $50 bonus to city staff and planning and zoning members. The amount matches previous years and will be given to 11 recipients.