Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Environmental Health topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board hears repeated concerns about dust from nearby crushing operation; staff to follow up with DHEC and town
Summary
Board members raised health and aircraft engine concerns over fine particulates from a nearby firm (Arbor Nature) now permitted to crush stone; town staff said the permit was applied for through DHEC and staff will investigate and coordinate enforcement if needed.
Members of the Beaufort County Airport Board raised renewed concerns about dust and fine particulate emissions from a nearby contractor that grinds or crushes stone, saying the material presents both potential engine wear for aircraft and public health risks.
A board member noted a continuing problem with dust on the hangar farm and said the issue has persisted despite prior discussion. "There's continued to be a lot of concerns about urban nature and the pollution that's occurring over on the hangar farm in the east side of the airport," the member said. Another member who identified as a retired lung doctor emphasized health concerns and urged action.
A town representative said, to their understanding, the company applied for permitting directly with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the town was not explicitly notified of the permit for grinding. "From what I understand, they applied for that permitting and directly with DHEC," the representative said. Staff pledged to investigate whether permits allow crushing or grinding and to coordinate with the town manager or code enforcement for documentation and inspections.
Board members discussed whether permits are time‑limited or in perpetuity; a staff member said many permits do not have explicit timelines and that the airport will seek more information. The board asked staff to follow up offline with the town and DHEC and to report back to the HXD improvement committee on any enforcement steps or mitigation options.
The discussion did not produce immediate enforcement action by the board; it produced a direction for staff follow‑up to determine permit scope and potential responses.
