Woodside Cemetery outlines plans for crematory and future funeral home facility

The Board of Zoning Appeals meeting held on June 25, 2025, in Middletown, Ohio, focused on a proposal from Woodside Cemetery and Arboretum regarding the designation of their crematory as a funeral home. The meeting featured key representatives, including Daniel Diver, the general manager, and Byron Atkins, a funeral director.

The discussion began with Diver explaining the need for a variance to classify the crematory as a funeral home. He clarified that the current building was selected to meet state requirements, which necessitate specific interior features and a certificate of occupancy. Diver noted that while they plan to use existing buildings on the property, their long-term goal is to construct a new combined facility within three to five years.

Council members raised questions about the accessibility of the crematory, particularly its distance from the main entrance. Diver assured them that the crematory could accommodate small gatherings, while larger services would be held in a community room located within the main office complex.

The board sought clarification on whether additional buildings would be constructed for the funeral home designation. Diver confirmed that no new structures were planned at this time, emphasizing that the existing buildings would suffice for their operations.

As the discussion progressed, board members inquired about the impact of this designation on other funeral homes in the area. Diver indicated that there had been no objections from other local funeral service providers, suggesting a consensus on the proposal.

The meeting concluded without further questions, and the board appeared to be leaning towards a favorable outcome for the application. The next steps will involve further review and potential approval of the variance request, allowing Woodside Cemetery and Arboretum to proceed with their plans.