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Emery County sets public hearing on small modular nuclear reactors at research center
Summary
The commission scheduled a public hearing for June 17, 2025 at 5 p.m. to gather public input on potential micro-modular reactor manufacturing and related economic opportunities at the county research center; a company safety officer (Jaren Wallace) is expected to present.
Emery County commissioners announced on June 3 that they will hold a public hearing at 5 p.m. June 17 to gather input on potential manufacturing and research related to small modular or micro‑modular nuclear reactors at the county research center.
"We are having a public hearing on nuclear industries in Emery County on 06/17/2025 at 5PM," the chair said, noting the county had received short notice of an executive order and that industry representatives would attend to explain opportunities and safety measures. Commissioners identified Jaren Wallace, described in the meeting as a safety officer and director at the research lab, as a planned presenter.
Commissioners discussed potential economic benefits — roughly "around, like, 60-ish jobs," one commissioner said — and safety and siting concerns for downwind towns such as Orangeville and Castle Dale. Staff and commissioners said the research center already conducts related research and testing and that the hearing would provide an opportunity for residents, mayors and other stakeholders to comment before the commission considers any formal outreach or incentives.
The hearing will be held in the commission chamber; county staff said they will invite industry representatives to present technical and safety information and will record public comments.
