Board approves underground fuel tank for Hangar 19, granting exception to policy

Representatives for Hangar 19 asked the board for permission to install an underground fuel tank at the northeast side of the field as part of a planned hangar expansion. "I'm Jack with Hangar 19," the applicant said, describing the proposed underground tank and drawings provided to staff.

Fuel‑system expert Jim Oay explained modern underground tank technology and safety features, saying double‑wall tanks and continuous monitoring make current systems far safer than older legacy tanks. "Underground tanks are... designed with a tank within a tank, pipe within a pipe, and then controls on it that would continuously monitor for any release," he said, adding these systems can shut down operation if a release is detected.

The proposed location deviates from the airport's stated policy that fuel tanks be located in the south fuel farm until that space is maximized. Board members asked about containment during tanker fills, environmental risk, and the implications if the hangar expansion did not proceed. The staff noted state regulations and federal standards apply and that spill/overfill protections would be included in the installation.

The board approved the exception and installation; the chair recused from the vote and turned the meeting over to Dean for that item. The motion to approve was moved and seconded, and members voted in favor.

Next steps: staff will document permit requirements, regulatory compliance steps (state underground storage tank rules and any required inspections), and conditions attached to the approval. The board requested ongoing oversight for monitoring and maintenance plans.