Cemetery Opponents Plan Tuesday Rally

Carrollwood Village residents have two words to share with Hillsborough County Commissioners when they meet for a land use hearing Tuesday, Aug. 13: “No Cemetery.”

That’s a message they’re hoping commissioners agree with as a rezoning request from the church moves toward its final obstacle. The 12708 N. Dale Mabry Highway Church wants to build a 3-acre cemetery on its grounds and residents say that plan could devalue homes and increase traffic congestion.

"It's out of character for the surrounding area," Carrollwood Village resident Scott Katz told a county hearing officer during a June land use meeting.  They're taking advantage of an opportunity to make a lot of money."

St. Paul officials disagree. They say the cemetery is a good fit for the church’s undeveloped property. Other possibilities for the land church officials have looked into include an assisted-living facility and a daycare center. The cemetery, however, is what parishioners want.

Joseph Divito, legal counsel for St. Paul's called the cemetery, "A catholic right" and "part of our Catholic Christian burial."

A land use hearing officer recommended approval of the project following the June hearing. County Commissioners will have the final say during their land use meeting at 9 a.m. Aug. 13. The board meets at 601 E. Kennedy Blvd.

They’ll be greeted by opponents wearing white to show their solidarity against the measure.

What do you think about the plans to build a cemetery in Carrollwood? Tell us by commenting below.