Which Mausoleum(s) Needs Repair?

The main mausoleum we’re focusing on is the large covered mausoleum with the altar, also known as the Chapel Mausoleum or Mausoleum 3. However, minor repairs to Mausoleums 4 and 5 (located behind or to the west of Mausoleum 3) are also in needed.

What is wrong with the Chapel Mausoleum?

There is significant cracking in the ceiling, floor, windows, and crypt borders and shutters as well as binding in the door frames. (See photos below.) But engineering evaluations have determined that these damages are superficial and not symptomatic of underlying structural failure. According to the analysis of Mr. David Huval, Sr., — the engineer who designed the mausoleum — the foundation is stable. He assures us that the foundation has not moved as much nor will move as much as previously estimated.

This is great news for our community and deceased loved ones! And there’s even more great news! See “What Will Be Done to Repair It?” for details.

Cracking in the ceiling.

Cracking in terrazzo floor and concrete.

Terrazzo tile discplacement.

Cracked window in doorway.

Cracking in crypt borders.

Cracking in crypt shutter.

What will be done to repair it?

Through his company, Complete Engineering and Construction, Inc., Mr. David Huval, Sr., — the engineer who designed the mausoleum — has generously committed to donate the labor and materials to repair:

  • The cracks in the concrete ceiling and terrazzo floor,

  • The broken shutters and trim,

  • The main entry doors, and

  • The broken glass in the doorways.

Some of the cracking in the ceiling was by the roof’s natural deterioration from exposure to the elements. Repairs to the existing drainage are likewise the concern of normal building maintenance though the need for new drainage around Mausoleum 3 is the consequence of the construction of the mausoleums behind it which disrupted the original drainage plan for Mausoleum 3. For these reasons, we will be responsible for the repairs to the roof and drainage system.

While on site, Complete Engineering and Construction, Inc., will repair the sidewalk and trim of Mausoleums 4 and 5, though we will also be responsible for these expenses since Mr. Huval was not involved in the design or construction of those mausoleums.

For more information, see “How Will This Project Be Paid For?” just below.

How will this project be paid for?

Since repairing the roof and drainage system is considered normal building maintenance, we will use the mausoleum’s endowment fund to cover these costs. If the cost of these repairs exceeds the available funds in the endowment, we will use the general cemetery fund or our CDLP savings and operating budget to cover the remaining balance.

Similarly, the expense of repairing the sidewalk and trim of Mausoleums 4 and 5 will be covered by their respective endowment funds. If the cost of these repairs exceeds the available funds in the respective endowments, we will use the general cemetery fund or our general savings or checking account to cover the remaining balance.

Thankfully, there will be no need to take out a loan for any of these repairs.

As explained above, Mr. David Huval, Sr., has generously committed to donating the labor and materials for all the other visible damages in Mausoleum 3.

When will the repair work begin?

Monday, November 14, 2022

is there still an effort to relocate remains?

While we are immensely grateful for all those who supported and helped us collect consents to move the remains of our loved ones, there is no longer a need to relocate the remains of our loved ones since Mr. David Huval, Sr. — the engineer who designed the mausoleum — has assured us that Mausoleum 3’s foundation is stable and the overall structure sound. The planned repairs to Mausoleum 3 will preserve the dignity of the resting place of our loved ones for many years to come.

How can I stay informed about the progress of this project?

If you would like to receive emails updating you about the progress of this project, please provide your contact information below:

questions about the current solution

If you’re familiar with the initial engineering evaluation — which concluded significant foundation movement had either occurred or was likely to occur — you may have questions or concerns about the most recent evaluation and our current approach. We truly care about your thoughts and opinions regarding this project. Please fill out the form below so we can better understand your questions and concerns.

232 Main St., P.O. Box 649, Arnaudville, LA 70512

Phone: (337) 754-5912    Fax: (337) 754-7203