‘Let kids breathe.’ Ulster residents raise concerns about proposed pet crematorium feet away from schools
The project is called Heavenly Heart and would be built off Route 9W in Highland, in the town of Lloyd.
Top Stories
Some community members in a small Ulster County hamlet are raising concerns with the location of a proposed pet crematorium.
The project is called Heavenly Heart and would be built off Route 9W in Highland in the town of Lloyd.
Opponents say they have health and air quality concerns, since the site is feet away from Highland elementary and middle schools, as well as the Babe Ruth baseball field and town field.
“The land to be used is lower than the school, so the emissions stack would pump out right at window level, just about 200 feet away from the littlest children’s cafeteria,” says Lacy Maffei, who is part of a group of parents and residents organizing against the crematorium. “This is not an appropriate place to put this type of business. It’s not appropriate for our children.”
The group is sharing project-based information and data on its website.
Data from the New York state Department of Environmental Conservation says crematoriums create very small amounts of particulate matter that are generally considered safe but may be a health risk to some people.
Town officials say the builder’s application is under review and that they’re taking public comment on the land use. Maffei says residents plan to put up a fight.
“This could all end at the next planning board meeting if the board says no more,” says Maffei.
Those interested in submitting public comment on the project can do so by emailing Town of Lloyd Planning and Zoning board secretary Sarah Vannostrand at svannostrand@townoflloyd.com.
Town Supervisor David Plavchak wouldn’t comment on the project but says community members are encouraged to submit their opinions before the June 26 deadline.
The next board meeting is scheduled for July 10 at Town of Lloyd Town Hall at 7 p.m.
