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Tisbury Commission OKs emergency temporary above‑ground diesel tank after underground tank failure
Summary
After an underground fuel tank failed a tightness test, the commission unanimously approved an emergency certification allowing a double‑walled above‑ground diesel tank at 86 Beach Road with conditions; staff noted the site is in a VE flood zone and that state/local permits will still be required.
The commission considered an emergency certification request at 86 Beach Road after a routine tightness test indicated a pinhole breach in the interstitial space of the existing underground double‑walled tank. Presenters Kevin Hoag and engineer Sunny Maharshi of Comm Tank described the defect, said the underground tank was taken out of service and drained, and proposed a temporary above‑ground steel tank while replacement work proceeds.
The proposed temporary unit is a double‑walled, triple containment above‑ground steel tank described as UL 2085 rated; the transcript describes a tank roughly 22.3 feet by 8 feet in diameter, weighing about 20,000 pounds empty and up to 80,000 pounds when full. The temporary tank was described as having a capacity 2,000 gallons less than the existing on‑site capacity, equipped with sensors in the interstitial space and containment, Coast Guard‑approved strapping for flood anchoring, and placement near the site fence above existing sumps to minimize new piping. The tank base would be prepared with gravel and half‑inch steel plates with containment beneath; coating chips would be repaired on site by sandblasting and recoating.
Conservation Agent Sean Young noted the site is within a VE flood zone and recommended the tank be elevated to allow free water flow beneath it. Representative Debby Packer said off‑road diesel is in limited supply on the island and emphasized the station’s role as a critical community resource. Hoag and Maharshi said removal and replacement of the underground tanks will be an extensive project that will return to the commission as a full filing and will require state and local approvals.
John Best moved to approve the emergency certification with conditions; Caroline Little seconded and the motion carried unanimously. The commission’s approval allows temporary above‑ground storage under specified conditions but does not substitute for the full permitting and replacement process required for permanent tanks.
