“Escalating Enforcement"
By: Kristine Bunch, MBA
February 19th, 2025
Smithville, MO – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued Referral Notices of Violation (RNOVs) against multiple parties involved in the demolition of the Old Smithville Hospital at 110 W Main Street due to significant violations of the Missouri Air Conservation Law.
On August 27, 2024, a DNR inspection at the demolition site found serious compliance failures, particularly concerning asbestos handling and air quality regulations. The Kansas City Regional Office of the DNR has since referred the case to the Air Pollution Control Program’s Compliance and Enforcement Section for further action.
Companies Cited for Violations
Two separate RNOVs were issued on January 3, 2025, addressing the violations:
110 Smithville, LLC, managed by Charles Lepe, received Referral Notice KCAP24003.
Industrial Salvage & Wrecking Co., Inc., led by Charles Cacioppo Jr., received Referral Notice KCAP24002.
These notices indicate that both entities failed to comply with state and federal regulations regarding the handling of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) and demolition protocols. The DNR had previously notified the companies of their violations on September 26, 2024, but the recent referral signifies escalating enforcement.
Asbestos Concerns and Demolition Violations
The asbestos inspection report for 108 W Main Street, a separate but related demolition site, revealed Regulated Asbestos-Containing Materials (RACM) within the structure. A failure to conduct asbestos inspections prior to demolition, combined with the lack of proper notification to regulatory agencies, placed the Smithville demolition projects under intense scrutiny.
According to environmental regulations, asbestos-containing materials must be handled carefully to prevent airborne exposure. If friable asbestos (materials that can easily crumble and release fibers) is mishandled, it can pose severe health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Enforcement and Next Steps
The DNR’s Air Pollution Control Program has assigned case manager George Syrigos to oversee the enforcement process. The involved parties have been given the option to reach a resolution through an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) or risk referral to the Missouri Attorney General’s Office for litigation.
“If these violations are not promptly addressed, the companies involved could face substantial fines and additional legal consequences,” said an environmental compliance expert familiar with the case.
Public and Environmental Safety Concerns
The Smithville community has raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of these violations. Residents and activists argue that the failure to properly manage asbestos in demolitions could have long-term consequences for public health.
“The handling of these demolitions appears to be reckless,” said a local resident who asked to remain anonymous. “We need stronger oversight to make sure our air and water aren’t being contaminated.”
Call for Transparency and Accountability
As the enforcement process unfolds, questions remain about whether additional violations exist at other demolition sites in Smithville. Public records requests are expected to be filed to obtain further details on the DNR’s findings and any corrective actions taken.
For now, the Old Smithville Hospital demolition remains a focal point of environmental oversight, with potential legal battles looming for those involved.
For updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage.
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