TULLAHOMA, TN – The Tullahoma Board of Mayor and Aldermen has approved payment of a $744,000 cleanup bill related to the recent fuel spill at the Tullahoma Airport.
Following debate during a special meeting and again at Monday night’s regular session, the board voted to float the payment from the city’s current reserves in order to meet a Feb. 20 deadline set by Ozone Environmental Services (OES), the company that performed the emergency containment and cleanup. The city will later replenish its reserves through an interest-bearing municipal bond airport outlay note.
Mayor Lynn Sebourn emphasized the urgency of the situation.
“It’s a near certainty that if we don’t do that tonight, we are going to miss their deadline,” Sebourn said, referencing potential legal action from OES. Alderman Matthew Bird agreed, stating that postponing could increase legal risk and damage the city’s relationship with Ascend, a neighboring property owner affected by the spill.
Alderman Kurt Glick proposed delaying the vote to explore additional funding avenues, but his motion failed 4-3. The board ultimately approved the funding plan 5-2, with Glick and Alderman Jerry Mathis dissenting. A separate vote to use reserve funds immediately passed unanimously.
The spill was caused by an unlocked fuel pump valve that was accidentally activated, releasing a large amount of fuel onto the airport grounds. A LifeFlight crew discovered the leak and alerted authorities.
Officials said rapid response prevented a far worse environmental disaster. OES crews arrived within 19 minutes and worked overnight to contain the spill, entering storm drains with breathing apparatus to prevent contamination of nearby waterways.
Cleanup officials indicated the situation could have cost millions more had the fuel reached area creeks. City reserves currently stand at approximately $7.5 million.
City leaders acknowledged the financial strain but agreed immediate payment was necessary to resolve the matter and avoid further legal complications.
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