A Tyrone worker’s plea has caused the state EPD to launch an investigation of possible air contamination from Georgia Masonry Supply.

James Norton made his second appearance before the Tyrone Town Council Thursday night and told the town’s leaders that EPD had given the company 10 days to clean up the facility. In a letter to Georgia Masonry, EPD’s Brian Boutelle said “fugitive dust emissions from your facility are in violation of Air Quality Regulations.” He added that dust generating sources “must be corrected immediately.”

Norton said he had walked outside his business in the industrial park this week and could not see the trees because the dust was so heavy. He also took the Tyrone Town council for not being responsive for his pleas for help.

Town attorney Brad Sears told Norton that the town does not have the resources of the EPD, but the town would look into the situation to see if the company was in violation of nuisance ordinances.

But Town Councilman Grace Caldwell said the town should be doing more to help Norton.

“We’re not protecting the public welfare. I have a responsibility to the people,” she said.

Norton said the problem has been occurring for more than six years, and no help has arrived from any branch of government.

“We value our employees. You’re supposed to help us,” he said.

Norton told the Town Council he would be back in December to update them on the situation.

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