The meeting featured a discussion on the implications of lead emissions from aviation fuel at Chatham Airport. The chairman of the airport commission shared the uncertain status of transitioning to unleaded fuel, pointing out that while the FAA granted a Supplemental Type Certificate for unleaded fuel, complete certification remained elusive. This situation necessitates the continued use of 100 low-lead fuel until at least 2030, unless a universally accepted unleaded alternative is developed sooner. The chairman described the regulatory environment as being in “a total state of flux,” with skepticism persisting among pilots regarding the reliability of unleaded fuel.

Concerns over public health impacts, particularly on children, were highlighted, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has no established safe threshold for lead exposure. Discussions noted the EPA’s stance and the urgency it places on reducing lead emissions. The Board contemplated various mitigation strategies, including the potential for warning signage about lead emissions at the airport. However, they also expressed caution about causing undue public alarm over lead exposure levels, which some believe might be negligible. The conversation underscored a lack of specific lead emissions studies at Chatham, with members acknowledging the prohibitive costs associated with such testing.

In parallel, the board deliberated on a proposal to increase waste disposal fees at the local transfer station. The proposal suggested raising the fee to $175 per ton, aligning with surrounding towns. However, local haulers Millie and Nickerson strongly opposed this increase, warning that a 94% hike would threaten their business viability. They argued that larger regional haulers could absorb such costs more easily, potentially driving local operators out of the market.

The Board acknowledged the haulers’ concerns, noting their longstanding service to the community. Discussions revealed a communication breakdown, as haulers were not adequately informed about the impending fee increase. The Board considered a more gradual fee adjustment, proposing an increase to $110 per ton instead, while ensuring compliance with regulations that mandate all waste at the transfer station originates within Chatham.

This debate extended to the enforcement of waste disposal regulations, particularly the stipulation that all trash must come from Chatham. Millie and Nickerson admitted to accepting a small percentage of waste from outside the town, a practice that conflicts with current rules. The Board considered measures to ensure compliance, such as requiring haulers to attest that their waste is locally sourced and potentially conducting spot checks.

The meeting also touched on environmental monitoring, with inquiries into the possibility of conducting air quality tests near the airport to assess lead levels. However, the costs and logistical challenges of such testing were significant barriers. Meanwhile, local ponds, including Goose Pond, were tested for cyanobacteria, with results indicating no presence of harmful toxins.