Renovations of former Air Force station lead to asbestos charges for two men
The former Cambria Air Force Station in California became the center of an illegal asbestos removal investigation. Property owner Bernd Schaefers has been charged with two misdemeanor counts involving coastal zone land use law, and property manager Luther Sherman Akers has been accused of felony illegal asbestos disposal and two misdemeanor land use violations. The two men are allegedly both responsible for unpermitted renovations on the property.
Cambria Air Force Station was situated on 34 acres, operated by the Air Force from the World War II era until 1980. When the station’s officers and enlisted men were not scanning the area for enemy aircraft and missiles, they enjoyed on-site recreational facilities such as a movie theater, bowling alley, putting green and outdoor basketball court.
The toxic substance asbestos was used throughout the station in the construction of the barracks and other buildings, as well as in pipe insulation. Now known as a carcinogen, exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma or other serious illnesses.
Schaefers bought the former Air Force station property in 2004, inviting Cal Poly students to the site three years later to come up with plans for potential renovations. The county public health officer then cited health risks when he closed the station to the public.
An investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered samples of material collected by the Air Pollution Control District that, upon testing, showed that significant quantities of asbestos had been removed illegally. Between 2005 and 2007, approximately 20 people lived on the property, receiving room and board in exchange for work that included removing pipe insulation. These workers were instructed not to breathe in too much of the [asbestos] dust from the pipes. Asbestos dust is dangerous when inhaled, as it can cause life-threatening illnesses like asbestosis or mesothelioma.
For the full story, go to San Luis Obispo Tribune.
