Johnson County adopts resolution expressing interest in TerraPower site consideration

The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners voted 7-0 Dec. 11 to approve Resolution 160-25, which expresses the county’s interest in being considered as a potential site for TerraPower’s advanced nuclear energy facility.

Adam Norris presented the agenda review material; commissioners discussed public sensitivity and regulatory hurdles. Commissioner Ashcraft said he removed the item from consent to allow public discussion and noted historical public concerns about nuclear development but said current discourse is more “fluid and much more positive.” Commissioner Hanslick noted bipartisan support cited in the briefing material and emphasized that the resolution is an expression of interest only and does not approve any project or site.

Commissioner Allen Brand moved approval of the resolution; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Several commissioners reinforced that county and local government retain full land‑use and zoning authority and that any specific project would require later approvals and comprehensive public engagement.

Quote from the meeting: “The resolution expresses interest only. It doesn't approve any specific project or site,” Commissioner Hanslick said, summarizing the briefing points.

Next steps: staff will continue discussions and coordinate any future steps with state, federal and local authorities; no site or project approvals were made at this meeting.