Proposed bioethanol plant draws heavy public concern over emissions and safety; company says project is in detailed engineering

A proposed bioethanol facility at the Ryan plant drew extended public comment and technical challenge at the Fernandina Beach meeting, with residents and experts citing state permit documents and public-emissions reports that they say show higher projected NOx and carbon monoxide emissions if the plant proceeds.

Citizen Taina Christner presented public data comparing 2023 reported emissions from the Ryan site with the Florida DEP projected emissions for the proposed bioethanol unit, arguing that NOx would increase by roughly 500 tons per year and CO would nearly double. Multiple residents and nearby homeowners described safety concerns and the prospect of tanker traffic carrying hazardous materials. Mary Lynn Hibdon called the proposal "explosive" and stressed proximity to homes, schools and churches.

Mark Homans, speaking for the company, said the project has moved from preliminary into detailed engineering, that site plans and fire-safety systems are being developed, and that the firm will present those details to the city's technical review committee (TRC) and at public forums when available. He said the company has held an open house and will continue community outreach as engineering details mature. The commission and staff agreed to schedule additional town halls and asked the company to provide application materials and technical answers to public questions prior to future forums.

The meeting did not produce a final action on land use or permits; participants said the item will proceed through standard permitting channels and TRC review, and the commission discussed scheduling at least one additional public meeting (several commissioners suggested multiple sessions) to provide technical briefings to residents.