Woodside Cemetery seeks variance for new funeral home in Middletown

A significant proposal took center stage at the recent Middletown City Council meeting, as the Woodside Cemetery Association sought a use variance to establish a funeral home at 1699 Woodside Boulevard. Currently zoned as R-4, which is designated for attached residential development, the request aims to allow a funeral home—a use not permitted under the existing zoning regulations.

The property, which already houses a crematory, is positioned to adapt to changing community needs, according to the applicant. Edward Shaffer, the attorney representing Woodside Cemetery, emphasized the importance of this move, stating that as cremation rates rise, cemeteries must evolve to remain viable. He pointed out that combining cemetery and funeral home services is a growing trend across the country, offering families the convenience of one-stop arrangements for their end-of-life needs.

The proposal has garnered some community interest, with one neighboring property owner expressing neutrality but seeking clarification on potential new construction. The cemetery's long-term vision includes building a dedicated funeral home facility, which would comply with Ohio's requirements for operation.

The City Council's decision on this variance could significantly impact the future of Woodside Cemetery, potentially allowing it to better serve the community while adapting to modern funeral practices. The council is expected to deliberate on the request in the coming weeks, with the outcome likely influencing the operational landscape of funeral services in Middletown.