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Board moves forward on new ozone monitor at AB Tech campus
Summary
Staff said the agency is working with the state DAQ and AB Tech to site a new ozone monitor at the AB Tech campus, using EPA-provided equipment and a DAQ building under an MOU to reduce costs, with operation targeted for the 2026 season.
Agency staff told the board they need an additional ozone monitoring site after Haywood County left the metropolitan statistical area; locating a monitor at AB Tech would fill that gap and help the county meet EPA monitoring requirements.
"We're working with AB Tech," Ashley said, noting the state Division of Air Quality has offered a building under a memorandum of understanding that will substantially cut start-up costs. Steve added that the agency received new ozone equipment from EPA grants and expects to leverage spares to outfit the new site. "If things keep going well, I anticipate we should be able to put that building down late summer and be ready to operate, when the season starts, in 2026, March 1st," he said.
Staff flagged a single new cost for a concrete pad for the heavier building and described steps for permitting and coordination with general services and AB Tech. The board did not take formal action on funding at this meeting but directed staff to continue permitting and finalize the MOU.
