Commissioners Bury Cemetery Proposal

Carrollwood won’t be getting a new cemetery any time soon.

Hillsborough County Commissioners voted unanimously Aug. 13 to deny a rezoning request from St. Paul Catholic Church that would have paved the way for the Christian cemetery’s construction.

Carrollwood Village residents turned out in force to the commission’s land use meeting, asking for the county to deny the request. Their concerns about the potential for traffic increases and a drop in property values didn’t fall on deaf ears.

Commission Chairman Ken Hagan made a motion to deny the request despite staff’s recommended approval. The motion was approved 7-0.

If approval had been granted, St. Paul would have used about 3 acres of its 12708 N. Dale Mabry Highway property for the cemetery. It is unclear at this time if the request will be resubmitted or if the church will pursue other plans for the land.

In the past, church leaders have said the land could also be used for an assisted living facility or a daycare center.

What do you think about the decision? Was it the right call? Tell us by commenting below!