It’s not every day you see a crematorium on a city council agenda.

But Flanders Morrison Funeral Home in Pembroke received council approval Monday evening to move forward with the addition of a crematory to their facilities. Though a public hearing was required, no changes in zoning or local ordinances were necessary.

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the request. "It is something we think will be helpful, both to the citizens as well as Mr. Flanders," City Planning and Zoning Planner Dain Reams stated.

Council also unanimously approved resident Dayle James’ request for a conditional use permit allowing use of her residence for business purposes. James operates a drone photography business and her home would serve as her office and for drone storage and maintenance.

James answered questions from the Council regarding the government regulations on operating drones.

She said she is compliant with

the law and at no point would her equipment be used over private property without prior consent.

"There are regulations as far as privacy. I do not plan to fly over any property that is not a client’s property or without permission from whoever is in charge, say at a sports activity... I follow strict safety guidelines at all times and am FAA licenced to fly commercially, it’s all about safety and privacy," James said.

Also Monday, Pembroke Police Chief Randy Alexander announced the hiring of a new officer, Marissa Fleming. Fleming was earlier sworn in by Mayor Judy Cook.

Pembroke City Council’s next scheduled meeting is 7 p.m. April 10 at city hall.