In regard to the Aug 24 meeting, pertaining to the proposed funeral home amendment, the vast majority of residents who would be directly impacted by the funeral home were not in favor of it. With that being the case, why would elected officials not address the public as to the way they voted? They also did not answer the question as to the need for two funeral homes in such a small village. The facts surrounding this property, which were presented to the board remain the same. They are as follows:

Within a 15 month span there were 70 reported accidents within 3/10 of a mile of this property. Mr. Scott Wiss was aware of these figures which were presented at one of our meetings.

Within the last 10 years enrollment has increased drastically in our schools. Southgate shopping center is already overloaded with cars from the high school which has also added to the Whitewood Drive traffic.

The library is undergoing major expansion which when finished will accommodate many more people and cars. This will increase traffic on the other artery in and out of our community.

The property does have environmental concerns.

For the most part, a funeral home is 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The fact that this property remains undeveloped is an issue that the village officials should not be faced with today. Many years ago the property should have been purchased and developed by the village. It is very commonplace for government to buy land and either preserve it as a greenbelt or develop it for the good of the community (i.e. Community Center).

In closing, I would like to say that this is not North vs. South issue as some would like to say. While it is the residents south of Merrick Rd. who will be directly affected, it is simply a matter of what is better for all the residents of the village.

Sadly, our village officials are not always interested in the residents as evidenced in this matter as well as the recent boat law attempt which had jail time attached. This government did not display the will of the people. Please come to all village meetings as it is quite an enlightening experience.

Linda Murphy