The Jefferson Parish (La.) Council signed off on a permit Dec. 6 - in a 4-3 split decision - for a controversial boiler at the Cornerstone Chemical Company's Waggaman campus but declined penalties against the firm for allowing its tenant to construct the machinery without the proper state and local approvals.
Council member Deano Bonano, a frequent critic of industrial development, wanted the parish to issue a “minimum” $50,000 fine. But state law restricts penalties imposed for violating a parish ordinance ($500). The parish opted not to impose it.
Residents from River Ridge and Waggaman urged the Parish Council to reject the application citing health and safety concerns.
The Parish Council ultimately approved the application.
Dyno Nobel, an Australia-based fertilizer and explosives manufacturer and tenant at the Cornerstone's campus, began constructing the boiler at its ammonia plant in August 2022, even though it hadn't been approved for a state air permit.
In October, the state Department of Environmental Quality issued a fine against Dyno Nobel ($1,725).
Under rules, anytime Cornerstone - or tenants - wants to build a new structure on its property, it must submit an application to amend the use and site plan.
Cornerstone didn’t submit that application until April 2023.
Shawn Ward, Cornerstone's corporate health, safety, security, environmental and sustainability director, apologized to the Parish Council.
Council member Scott Walker said the issue could not have been handled worse, and in the end, "felt duped” by the company.
Since April, Dyno Nobel ammonia plant was purchased by CF Industries, an Illinois-based agricultural fertilizers manufacturer.
Before the boiler can be turned on, Cornerstone will need a building permit from Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng's administration.
The natural gas-powered boiler would create steam power and also emit greenhouse gases. Dyno Nobel applied for a modified air permit in June 2022 to account for the increased sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. (NOLA.com 12/06/23) Jefferson council decides fine, permit for Dyno Nobel boiler | Jefferson Parish | nola.com
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