It’s Official!
The Middletown Planning Board has denied Fairview Cemetery’s application to build a dangerous and toxic crematorium along Oak Hill Road!
The vote to deny the application took place in early September, and at last night’s meeting, the Board formally approved the resolution to finalize that denial.
What does this mean?
Fairview Cemetery now has 45 days to appeal the decision to Monmouth County. If they choose to do so, the matter will move to Freehold, where it will become a legal case between the cemetery’s attorneys and the Township of Middletown.
If the cemetery does not appeal, they may still petition the Planning Board again in the future. However, any new application would be futile, as all testimony and evidence from this past summer are part of the public record and would be considered in any future proceedings.
This has been a long and hard-fought battle that began last January, when Fairview Cemetery first petitioned to build a crematorium alarmingly close to schools, youth athletic fields, and residential neighborhoods. In truth, this fight has stretched over seven years, and we have come too far—and sacrificed too much—to stop now.
Please know that we will remain vigilant and continue to protect our community. Compared to 2019 and even last January, our organization is now stronger than ever—with improved infrastructure, more community support, and the resources necessary to ensure that Fairview Cemetery’s plans do not move forward.
At this point, we urge Fairview Cemetery to accept this outcome and withdraw their petition once and for all. The people of Middletown have spoken—clearly and repeatedly—and they will not allow a toxic crematorium to be built in our town. Every previous attempt has been rejected, and this one will be no different.
We encourage the cemetery to redirect its efforts toward maintaining its existing property and serving its patrons with respect and care. It’s time for all of us to move forward and put this issue behind us.
Finally, we want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who attended meetings, shared our messages, and donated to our legal defense fund. This victory would not have been possible without your dedication, generosity, and unwavering support.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we are especially grateful—for your encouragement, your involvement, and for a crematorium-free Middletown.
With heartfelt thanks,
Andy and the Leadership Team
