Name: Rose Ann Wheeler McCarthy
How long have you lived in Marblehead? Lifelong resident (born 1935)
Profession: Retired accounts payable clerk
Elected and appointed positions held: Former Recreation and Parks Commissioner (served approximately 13 years)
1. In light of recent tensions between commissioners and cemetery leadership, how would you work to clarify and improve the working relationship between the Cemetery Commission and the cemetery superintendent to ensure effective governance?
I would support a collaborative approach in which the superintendent presents the Commission with a prioritized list of major projects and maintenance needs. This allows the board to review, fund and sequence improvements transparently. For example, repairs to the veterans’ pool and addressing water access at Old Burial Hill are both pressing concerns.
2. Given the reported deferred maintenance in historic cemeteries like Old Burial Hill and the Hooper Tomb, what are your priorities for addressing these issues and how would you propose funding necessary repairs?
My priority is raising awareness about urgent needs — such as repairs to the Hooper Tomb and structural work at Old Burial Hill. These sites are part of Marblehead’s heritage and must be preserved. I would advocate for public-private partnerships, and potentially establish a “Friends of Marblehead Cemeteries” group. We’ve seen residents be incredibly generous when made aware of what’s at stake.
3. What alternative funding sources, such as grants or community partnerships, would you pursue to supplement the cemetery budget and support preservation efforts?
I would pursue state and federal preservation grants as well as partnerships with historical societies. Marblehead has a proud legacy, and many groups specialize in restoring sites like ours. We should also explore local fundraising efforts — residents have deep pride in our cemeteries and would likely support capital campaigns. An organized effort to apply for grants and rally preservation groups could go a long way toward protecting our most at-risk sites.
4. What is your vision for a long-term plan to ensure that Marblehead’s cemeteries can accommodate future needs while respecting historical significance?
Preserving our cemeteries begins with public awareness. Many residents are unaware of the disrepair at historic sites like the Hooper Tomb. My long-term plan would include better community outreach, increased transparency in budgeting for cemetery improvements and protecting historical assets while planning for future needs. These spaces deserve thoughtful care. If we don’t act now, we risk losing a part of our history forever.
