The Sussex County Council convened on February 4, 2025, to address several key zoning applications, including a notable proposal for a new cemetery. The council's decision to approve the conditional use for a cemetery in the Nanticoke Hundred area reflects the community's growing needs for local burial options.
During the meeting, the council reviewed an application from Living Home Fellowship, which seeks to establish a cemetery on a 7.2-acre parcel of land located on Statenville Road. The church, represented by Chairman Alan Warfel, expressed the desire to provide a dedicated burial site for its congregation. The proposal received unanimous support from the council, following a favorable recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, which highlighted five reasons for approval.
The council emphasized its commitment to fair and equitable zoning practices, ensuring that decisions are made without discrimination based on race, religion, or other protected classes. This commitment was reiterated during the public hearing, where no opposition was voiced against the cemetery application.
In addition to the cemetery proposal, the council discussed other zoning matters, including a change of zone application that was postponed due to the absence of the applicant's representative. The council plans to revisit this issue in a future meeting.
The approval of the cemetery is a significant step for the community, providing residents with a local option for burial services and reflecting the council's responsiveness to the needs of its constituents. As the council continues to navigate zoning applications, it remains focused on fostering a community that is inclusive and attentive to the diverse needs of its residents.