A Phoenix municipal court judge fined a Tempe
company $81,963 on Tuesday for a string of violations at a
controversial asphalt plant in south Phoenix.
Fisher Sand & Gravel Co. shut down the plant at 3828 S. 28th St.
in February, amid intense pressure from city prosecutors, regulators
and neighborhood groups.
Residents have complained that the asphalt plant spewed dust, smoke
and a hot-rubber odor. Phoenix has argued in court that the plant was
built without a proper permit.
The Tuesday fine involved 55 violations for property problems - such
as weeds and debris - as well as zoning violations tied to the permit
issue, said Patricia Boland, a city attorney.
Fisher spokesman Karl Gentles said that the firm was "disappointed" by the ruling.
Gentles said the firm has made property upgrades to address the city's concerns.
Phoenix and Fisher are involved in several other court battles.
Phoenix filed criminal charges against the company in January. A
Maricopa County Superior Court judge's is expected to decide if Fisher
built the troubled plant without a proper permit.
Fisher is a Dickinson, N.D.-based industrial firm. It has been
awarded millions in state and Phoenix contracts, but its last city
contract ended in 2009.