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Convention center fuel tank nets fine

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By CHRISTIAN M. WADE

cwade@tampatrib.com

Published: July 30, 2009

TAMPA - The city is facing fines of more than $16,000 from environmental regulators for a litany of alleged violations on a fuel storage tank at the Tampa Convention Center.

The fines are part of a proposed settlement between the city and Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, stemming from an inspection last year that found the 4,000-gallon tank was in violation of about a dozen state and county regulations.

EPC investigators cited the city for not obtaining permits to install the tank, failure to install safety equipment and conduct regular inspections, among other violations.

The above-ground tank holds diesel for the convention center's backup generators, which are used to restore power to the building in the event of a natural disaster or blackout.
City officials could not immediately be reached for comment.

EPC enforcement manager Leslie Campbell said all the violations have been resolved, including a demand that the city register the tank and begin monthly safety inspections.

"The city has told us that they are currently reviewing our offer," she said.

Reporter Christian M. Wade can be reached at (813) 259-7679.

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