Brunson Elementary's Brownfield plan faces criticism over environmental safety concerns

Concerns over environmental safety took center stage at the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education meeting on May 27, 2025, as a speaker raised alarms about the implications of Brownfields law on the construction of Brunson Elementary School. The speaker emphasized that the law primarily protects property developers from lawsuits rather than safeguarding the health of students and staff exposed to hazardous pollutants like arsenic and lead.

The speaker criticized the board's reliance on legal documents that, while providing immunity from litigation, do not ensure the safety of those who will occupy the school. "Sheets of paper cannot protect the staff, students, and families at Brunson Elementary from exposure," they stated, highlighting the risks associated with building on a Brownfield site.

Key points from a recent meeting with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality were also brought to light. The speaker accused the board's environmental legal consultant of misrepresenting the safety of the site, claiming that contaminants were below acceptable levels—a statement the speaker labeled as false. They further asserted that the board had not been adequately informed about the environmental risks throughout the decision-making process.

The discussion underscored a growing concern among community members regarding transparency and accountability in the school district's handling of environmental issues. As the board moves forward with plans for Brunson Elementary, the implications of these discussions could resonate deeply within the community, raising questions about the balance between development and public health.