Dallas is embroiled in legal challenges concerning its storm debris operations in North Dallas. Medisend College of Biomedical Engineering Technology, a non-profit institution serving military veterans, has filed a lawsuit against the city. The college alleges that dust and dirt pollution from the city’s temporary storm debris site adjacent to its campus have caused significant damage, forcing the college to either close or reduce classes.
Located near I-635 and Greenville Avenue, the city’s site spans approximately five football fields. Following a severe storm in May, much of the storm debris, including trees, dirt, wood, and plastic, has been transported to this site for grinding, mulching, and eventual disposal in the city’s landfill.
Nick Hallack, the college’s founder and president, voiced concerns about the environmental impact, citing large dust plumes settling on their building and clogging air conditioning systems. The lawsuit, filed in the 191st Judicial District Court of Dallas County, asserts that the city’s operations have led to dust and dirt pollution infiltrating the college’s property, affecting commercial air conditioning units, and damaging sensitive medical equipment.
Following a hearing via Zoom, a district judge granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) on Wednesday. This order mandates that both parties adhere to legal standards during operations. It permits Dallas to continue debris and mulch hauling but requires the city to enhance dust control measures and comply with Texas environmental regulations before resuming mulching activities.
Hallack emphasized the impact on students, noting that the dust disruption jeopardizes their education and career prospects. The case is scheduled for further court proceedings on July 22 to address long-term resolution options.
The city of Dallas declined to comment on ongoing litigation.
