September 28 , 2007

Commissioners Condemn Lawsuits to Delay National Veterans Cemetery in Upper Makefield

Underscoring its firm commitment to see a National Veterans Cemetery dedicated in Upper Makefield, the Board of Bucks County Commissioners today decried the lawsuit filed this week in the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas on behalf of 16 residents. Commissioners Charles H. Martin, chairman, James F. Cawley, Esq., and Sandra A. Miller feel compelled to oppose any action which thwarts the advancement of the National Veterans Cemetery – which the board supported in a public resolution as early as August, 2005, during one of its regularly scheduled meetings.

“Every local government entity which is involved in the cemetery project has approved the Federal Cemetery Overlay,” Chairman Martin noted, referring to Upper Makefield, Wrightstown and Newtown Twp. officials, who approved the ordinance last fall. “We stand behind these local officials. We’ve always been strong advocates, and we’ve been there, out front, leading the way to bring this national treasure to Bucks County.”

Bucks County Veterans Affairs Director Dan Fraley offered his support for the commissioners and local officials, adding, “I join the commissioners in their effort to help secure the National Veterans Cemetery. Since the beginning, when we collected more than 3,000 signatures supporting the venture, we have been convinced that Bucks County will provide an historic resting place for our national heroes.”

During December, 2006, under the direction of Chairman Cawley, the commissioners announced their intent to continue discussions with residential developer Toll Brothers, Inc. “concerning a 27.4-acre portion of the White property,” which is located at the corner of Rte. 532 (Washington Crossing Rd.) and Highland Rd. in Upper Makefield Twp. The property would be used as a county “Veterans Park,” as well as a gateway to the proposed 200-acre National Veterans Cemetery.