Commissioners press airport operator over Tango Fox engine‑testing after short‑term lease; noise tests ordered

Tango Fox Services told the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners it will use a McDonnell Douglas MD‑83 as a testing platform to conduct engine operational checks at Okeechobee Airport, projecting about 50 engine tests a year, each run lasting roughly 30 minutes and consuming about 600 gallons of jet fuel per run. The company said it has executed a short‑term incubator lease and obtained local business licensing; staff said fuel for tests will be purchased at the county airport and estimated direct annual fuel sales at about $151,200, with roughly $77,000 net to airport operations.