Board flags dust and permitting concerns at nearby stone-crushing operation

During committee reports the board discussed community concerns about a nearby company, referenced in the meeting as Arbor Nature, whose grinding or stone-crushing activities may be producing dust near the hangar farm.

Multiple board members and attendees said Arbor Nature either applied for or received permitting for crushing/grinding construction materials, and that the activity raises operational and health worries. One attendee who identified himself in the meeting as a retired lung doctor said fine particle dust could pose a health risk to nearby residents and staff and could damage aircraft engines. John and Steve said the airport was not notified directly by the permitting authority and that the airport will coordinate with the town and code enforcement to determine what permits were issued and whether additional oversight is needed.

Why it matters: airborne particulate matter from industrial crushing can reduce engine life for piston and turbine engines and create public-health concerns for nearby communities. Board members asked staff to find whether permits are time-limited or in perpetuity and to work with the town to document any violations and inspections.

Next steps: staff agreed to investigate permit terms and to coordinate with town code enforcement and the county so that inspections and documentation can support any enforcement actions; the board asked staff to report back when information is available.