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Commissioners press airport operator over Tango Fox engine‑testing after short‑term lease; noise tests ordered
Summary
Tango Fox Services has a short‑term lease to use an MD‑83 as a test platform at Okeechobee Airport, projecting about 50 engine tests a year. Commissioners said they were surprised the plane arrived before board notification and asked staff to run sound tests, review insurance and security, and observe test runs before full operations begin.
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.
The presentation prompted sharp questions from several commissioners, who said the aircraft’s arrival and the administrative lease preceded board notice. Chair said the unilateral move had embarrassed commissioners and asked staff to ensure all safety, insurance and operational controls are in place before ongoing operations: “I don’t wanna break your spirit, but I’m so disappointed that we’re at this point…It’s embarrassing,” the Chair said during the discussion. Airport staff and the Tango Fox representative said the company provided evidence of liability insurance, spill‑response kits and that an operating procedure and site containment measures will be required before the company starts routine testing.
Commissioners asked for concrete data before allowing regular testing. Staff and the company agreed to schedule on‑site sound testing during the company’s early runs so commissioners and staff can measure off‑site noise levels and observe operations. The board asked staff to consult peers at Fort Pierce and Sebring on mitigation measures and to return with: the company’s insurance certificates and limits, an operational spill and containment plan, proposed security gating for any long‑term lease site, and decibel readings from the test runs. The director described plans for long‑term placement in the industrial park with a fenced lease site, while noting testing will occur outside until a permanent facility exists.
