County's pet incinerator shouldn't compete with private business

Editor:

As owner of Paradise Pet Cemetery and Crematory, I have been doing cremations for the CSRA for the past 15 years and have worked hard to create a dignified, compassionate business. I am now facing losing my cremation business due to the invasion of private enterprise by Columbia County Animal Control.

I discovered that Columbia County had developed a private cremation plan that will be cutting my prices in half. I went to the County Commission meeting concerning these issues and spoke to the commissioners about the impact of the cremation plan. They seemed very sensitive to not competing with private enterprise, and sent the issue back to committee.

Two days later, Emergency Services Division Director Pam Tucker recommended to the committee that the original cremation plan with no changes be sent back for a final approval by the commissioners again Tuesday.

//

It is unethical for a county tax-supported business to enter into private enterprise and put someone out of business, charging prices that would not support a business without the use of tax dollars. Where will they draw the line? Will they cremate people next? Local funeral directors beware!

County crematories normally dont do private cremations in cities large enough to support private enterprise, let alone enter the market knowingly destroying an investment of 15 years. For those who care deeply enough about their pets to want to keep a memory of them, do you really want your animal cremated with road kill?

It makes you wonder about our public servants, doesnt it? If I have helped you say goodbye to a special friend, or if you agree this is unethical, please contact the Columbia County Board of Commissioners at 868-3379 and let them know how you feel.

Richard Lord

Augusta