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Presentation on small modular reactors sparks discussion of potential county role and costs
Summary
A presenter briefed the board on small modular reactors (SMRs), saying 2026 could bring permitting milestones and suggesting the county could consider investment; board members raised questions about cost, demand, and the need for further study including a plebiscite suggestion for public buy-in.
A presenter discussed small modular reactors and their development timeline, telling the board that certain permitting and criticality milestones are expected in 2026 and that feasibility and pre-feasibility studies are already complete. He described SMR construction permits and licensing processes as distinct steps and said counties could engage in various ways, including exploring investment options.
The presenter said the county could benefit economically but acknowledged substantial costs. "If you build it, I can promise you every electron we generate, we can sell," he said, arguing the supply could be monetized to payback capital costs. Another board member cautioned about cost and demand, and the presenter suggested a plebiscite or borrowing against the county tax base as possible mechanisms for public authorization and financing. The board asked for clarification and more information before any formal step.
