Hernando County commissioners voted 4-1 on March 3, 2026, to grant a special exception for a monument business on a rural east-county road, overruling neighbors who packed the hearing to protest what they called an industrial operation in a residential area.
The vote allows David and Lynette Merritt to continue operating Merritt Monuments Inc. on their 8.3-acre property on Weatherly Road in Brooksville. The parcel of land is located in a rural area of Hernando County, where residents have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the business on their quality of life.
Numerous residents protested the business, citing concerns about increased traffic, noise, and disruption to the rural atmosphere. Despite these concerns, commissioners approved the special exception, allowing the Merritts to continue operating their monument business.
The approval was not without controversy, with one commissioner voting against the exception. The Merritts’ property on Weatherly Road has been the site of their monument business for some time, and the special exception will allow them to continue operating without fear of reprisal from county authorities.
Originally reported by Suncoast News – Brooksville
Sources: Suncoast News – Brooksville
Related Posts
Florida Driver License Exams Will Be English-Only Starting February 6
Hernando County Libraries Seek Public Input on Facilities Master Plan Through Workshop and Survey
Hernando County Launches Tyler Enterprise Permitting System to Streamline Business Licensing
Hernando County Transit Services to Relocate Brooksville City Hall Bus Stop