Rutherford family seeks conditional use for pet crematory in Santa Rosa County

A proposed pet crematory service in Santa Rosa County has sparked significant debate during the recent Commission Special Rezoning Meeting. The Rutherford family, seeking to establish a crematory operation on their 112-acre property along Polk Town Road, emphasized the need for local pet cremation services following the closure of a previous provider that left residents waiting weeks to retrieve their pets' remains.

The family presented their case, highlighting the operation's environmentally friendly features, including a smokeless and odorless machine that is EPA approved. They clarified that they are not seeking a pet cemetery or any zoning changes, but rather a conditional use permit for their business. "There is a need, so we'd like to request a conditional use," they stated, aiming to partner with local veterinarians for pick-up and delivery services.

However, opposition arose from neighboring landowners who expressed concerns about property values and the impact on the rural landscape. Jason Wolf, a local resident, voiced his frustrations, claiming that the Rutherfords had previously made promises regarding land use that they did not keep. "What they're doing is hurt what my grandfathers did," he argued, emphasizing the potential negative effects on his cattle farm's view and value.

Another resident, Sherry Chapman, raised safety concerns about the crematory's operation, questioning its location in a predominantly agricultural area. She pointed out that many residents prefer to bury their pets at home rather than seek cremation services, suggesting that the demand may not be as high as proposed.

As the meeting progressed, the commission faced the challenge of balancing the Rutherfords' business aspirations with the concerns of the community. The outcome of this request remains uncertain, but it underscores the complexities of land use and the diverse needs of Santa Rosa County residents. The commission is expected to deliberate further on the matter, weighing the potential benefits against the community's apprehensions.