print

A MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER BURT AARONSON

The following is a letter that I recently sent to the Palm Beach Post. Since many of you receive the Sun Sentinel, I feel it is important to share it with the Alliance of Delray, COBWRA, the West Boca Community Council, veterans groups and each and every one of you.

Dear Editor:

The November 15th edition of the Palm Beach Post contained an article entitled, "County OK’d Growth Plans Contested." The article explained that a number of environmentalists filed paperwork with the State to participate in negotiations to settle the fate of four county comprehensive plan changes approved by the County Commission this past August.

One of the changes was the Land Use Request for a land designation that would pave the way for a funeral home to be located on the northwest corner of State Road 7 and Heritage Farms Road. The property is adjacent to the proposed South Florida National Cemetery.

I find it outrageous that anyone would object to this land use change. I can’t think of another use that would be more compatible next to a national cemetery than a funeral home.

Environmentalists proclaim that they want to protect our natural resources. The greatest resources in this country are the people. Those who have served and died deserve a final resting place. Having a funeral home adjacent to their resting place is a necessity not a luxury. To deny families who want to hold services for their loved ones before the burial is unconscionable.

I voted to approve this land use change and I will continue to support it. We need to let the families have their final moments and to let the veterans rest in peace.

Sincerely,

BURT AARONSON
County Commissioner
District 5